Everton are preparing to terminate Armando Broja’s loan and send him back to Chelsea, paving the way for the Toffees to bring in a replacement striker this month.
Broja is expected to return to his parent club after suffering an ankle ligament injury that will sideline him for around 12 weeks. This development was confirmed by David Moyes following Everton’s 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on Wednesday.
“We think he’s going to be out for somewhere between 10-12 weeks,” Moyes said. “It’s his ankle ligaments. It’ll probably mean there’s a possibility that he will have to go back to Chelsea.”
With Broja’s exit likely, Everton will be left with two senior strikers, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto, both of whom have been linked with moves away from Goodison Park. However, TEAMtalk reports that Everton are determined to retain the pair, despite interest from other clubs.
The Toffees’ struggles in front of goal have been a major concern this season. Calvert-Lewin missed key chances against Aston Villa, and Moyes is reportedly eager to bring in reinforcements, with efforts expected to intensify now that Broja’s time at Everton appears to be over.
Everton not pursuing Ferguson or Cannon – sources:
Recent speculation suggested Everton had contacted Brighton about a loan move for striker Evan Ferguson. However, this appears to be inaccurate.
While Ferguson might be open to a temporary switch, an ongoing ankle injury makes him an unsuitable option.
Furthermore, Brighton are reluctant to let Ferguson leave, given Joao Pedro’s injury, despite initially considering a loan move.
Reports also linked Everton to former striker Tom Cannon, recently recalled by Leicester from his loan at Stoke City.
However, sources confirm that Everton are not pursuing Cannon, even though Leicester are open to selling the 22-year-old permanently. Burnley, Sheffield United, and Sunderland are reportedly in the race for his signature instead.
Everton’s transfer strategy and constraints:
Despite the financial backing of their new owners, The Friedkin Group, Everton must remain cautious due to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Any significant spending will likely require player sales to balance the books.
Moyes is reportedly targeting multiple reinforcements this month, including a striker, a winger, and a full-back. Broja’s departure is expected to free up a loan slot, offering a PSR-compliant way to strengthen the squad.
Nuamah talks continue, loan deal possible:
Everton are maintaining their interest in Lyon winger Ernest Nuamah. The Toffees were close to signing the 21-year-old last summer, agreeing on personal terms, but a deal was not finalized. Sporting director Kevin Thelwell is said to be a strong admirer of Nuamah, with Everton’s interest described as “concrete.”
Although Lyon value Nuamah at around £25 million, Everton have yet to submit an official bid.
A potential loan deal with an obligation to buy is being explored, which would defer the financial impact to the next financial year. If Everton make a formal offer soon, it could signal confidence in reaching an agreement with the French club.