Everton do not seem likely to bring in anyone this month, but there is growing talk they might make a high-profile move when the summer window opens.
With just over a week left before the window closes, time is running out for Everton to get any deals over the line.
Recent reports have pointed towards a focus on loans rather than permanent signings, which has not gone down well with supporters hoping for more substantial additions.
The injury to Jack Grealish could force Everton into the market for a winger. However, it may still be a frustrating end to January for fans hoping for more activity.
Goodison Park is bracing for a busy summer with several squad upgrades needed. Recently, Everton have even been linked to Harry Maguire by one report.
Everton considering move for Harry Maguire ahead of summer window
The Daily Briefing reports that Everton could join the race to sign Harry Maguire, with the Manchester United defender expected to leave when his contract expires this summer.
Maguire’s deal at Old Trafford is nearing its end, and unless a new agreement is reached, he will be available on a free transfer.
Several clubs are already monitoring his situation, including Chelsea, Bournemouth, West Ham United, Napoli, and AS Roma.
Chelsea reportedly view Maguire as a player who could have a similar influence to what Thiago Silva brought to the club.
Everton have also been mentioned in connection with him and have history when it comes to bringing in former United players.
Maguire may be looking for a fresh start after seven years at United following his £80 million move from Leicester City back in 2019 (BBC Sport).
David Moyes once thought about bringing Harry Maguire to Man United
Everton’s potential interest in Harry Maguire this summer has an interesting link to the past, as David Moyes once considered signing him during his time as Manchester United manager.
But he ultimately decided against it, citing concerns over Maguire’s physique at the time.
Moyes explained the reasoning behind that decision back in 2019 on talkSPORT: “We didn’t try to sign him [during his spell at Man United] but we flagged him up at that time.
“I was very aware of the players in the lower leagues and had made a good career out of bringing them to Everton – whether that be Tim Cahill or all the ones we did through the years.
“Harry Maguire was another one I recognised. He played against Preston North End at home in a league game and I watched him and thought he played really well but at that time he was really big.
“You thought ‘My goodness, how big is Harry going to be’, because he was a relatively young boy at that time.
“To be fair he looks in terrific shape and he hasn’t changed at all really. When I went to United, we had Vidic, Rio, Jonny Evans, Michael Keane, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling so for us to go and buy another young centre-half wasn’t the biggest thing we needed at the time.
“And Harry Maguire has had to go on his journey. Sometimes the players need the journey to get to where they have to go. He might have struggled then.”
This summer could see Everton searching for new options at centre-back, especially with James Tarkowski aging and Michael Keane possibly leaving on a free transfer. However, age may be a concern with Maguire too, as he turns 33 in just two months’ time.
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