Everton may already be casting an eye towards the January transfer window following a dismal start to the Premier League season.
Sean Dyche has a lot to ponder during the international break after his side suffered three consecutive defeats, culminating in a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth.
The poor start has left the Merseyside club rooted to the bottom of the table, sparking concerns about their ability to avoid another relegation battle.
After the Bournemouth game, it was reported that Seamus Coleman and James Tarkowski addressed the dressing room, hoping to inspire their teammates to regroup and improve.
This came after a summer transfer window that, on paper, looked promising but has so far failed to deliver the desired results on the pitch.
One player who could be on his way out of Goodison Park in January is forward Youssef Chermiti. The 20-year-old Portuguese striker had shown some encouraging form during pre-season but has since struggled with injury, leading to speculation that he could be sent out on loan in the new year.
Youssef Chermiti’s Potential January Loan
Everton’s pre-season was a mixed bag, with inconsistent results raising early concerns. However, one bright spot in the early stages was Chermiti, who impressed Dyche with his performances.
The young forward netted twice in a pre-season friendly against Sligo Rovers, showing signs that he could be a useful option for the Toffees.
However, his progress was halted by a foot injury sustained during training at Finch Farm. In August, Chermiti underwent surgery for the issue, and while no specific recovery timeline was given, the injury has kept him out of action ever since.
Speaking on The Royal Blue Mersey YouTube channel, Everton journalist Chris Beesley suggested that Chermiti might be loaned out once he recovers:
“Chermiti is there, but he’s injured as well. I wonder if he’ll now be loaned out in the second half of the season when he gets himself fit.”
Chermiti’s Injury and Recovery
Chermiti’s injury has limited his opportunities at Goodison Park, with the forward making just 20 appearances and clocking a mere 253 minutes on the pitch.
For a young player needing regular game time to continue his development, a loan move in January might be the best solution.
Dyche will undoubtedly want to ensure that Chermiti gets the minutes he needs to regain full fitness and continue his progression, whether at Everton or elsewhere.
As Everton prepare for the second half of the season, Dyche will hope that any potential movement in January—whether it be players departing or arriving—will help turn things around for a club in desperate need of a lift.