Marco Silva’s maiden season in charge of Everton has proved to have had some success mixed in with plenty of disappointment too.
But the club are on track for a strong finish to the term under the manager’s watchful eye, with a top-half finish within sight if the results keep coming.
With the likes of Watford, Leicester City and West Ham United all pushing for a spot in the top half of England’s top-flight standings this season, there’s still plenty to play for during the remainder of the campaign.
The Toffees are now regarded as one of the favourites to secure a top-half finish this current campaign at odds-on 2/7 with bet365 in the football betting, after their more impressive run of results of late under the guidance of Silva.
With Silva hoping to enjoy a stronger start and overall success next term, the Portuguese tactician will be out to boost his ranks in the summer. So, here are several names that have been linked and could arrive at Goodison Park in the summer market.
Kieran Trippier – Tottenham Hotspur
After a mixed term so far for Silva, he will be keen to strengthen all over the pitch, including in his backline and wide areas.
One name that has been linked with a high-profile switch to Goodison Park is Tottenham Hotspur right-back Kieran Trippier, who is tipped to depart his present employers in the coming months in a possible swap deal after some criticism for his recent Spurs showings.
It has been reported by various outlets that the Toffees are keen on the England international right-back, while Mauricio Pochettino wants to land centre-back Michael Keane. Therefore, a potential swap deal could be on the cards, and it’s some transfer business that would suit all parties involved this summer window.
Spurs are in need of English players to boost their homegrown quota, and Belgium international defender Toby Alderweireld is rumoured to be set for a departure from the capital club, meaning Keane would be a welcome boost to proceedings.
Aleksandar Mitrovic – Fulham
Everton have also been linked with a move for Fulham frontman Aleksandar Mitrovic, who was unable to help prevent the Cottagers from facing an immediate relegation back to the Championship this term.
The Serbian striker sealed a permanent £22 million move to Fulham last summer after firing them to promotion from the second tier, and he will want to avoid another season in the Championship.
Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande, Spurs, West Ham, Southampton and Leicester are also said to be interested, but Everton may be a more attractive destination.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – Crystal Palace
Another potential move could be Crystal Palace full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has gathered plenty of attention with his sublime performances throughout this current Premier League campaign.
Silva may see the Eagles talent as the long-term successor to Republic of Ireland full-back and current club captain Seamus Coleman, who has been hit with plenty of injury setbacks of late.
Wan-Bissaka would potentially cost up to £40 million though, which could prove to be a stumbling block if Silva wants to pursue the highly-rated prospect further.