David Moyes has the opportunity to usher in a fresh chapter at Everton this summer, utilizing The Friedkin Group’s financial backing to reshape the squad.
The Toffees are poised to make significant on-pitch changes following Farhad Moshiri’s departure from Goodison Park, marking the beginning of a transformative period.
As the summer transfer window approaches, one of the anticipated departures is the injury-plagued Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has been heavily linked with a move to Newcastle.
Paul Robinson has urged Everton to “pull the plug” on a new deal for the 27-year-old, whose contract offer has remained unsigned for months. The club has already opted against triggering a one-year extension for Abdoulaye Doucoure [The Athletic].
With these major changes on the horizon, Moyes faces critical decisions ahead of the move to Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium. Here’s how Football Insider predicts Everton will line up for their first match of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
David Moyes sticks with a reliable Everton defense:
Jordan Pickford
Everton has relied on Jordan Pickford since 2017, and with over 300 club appearances to his name, replacing him now would be unwise.
The England international has been instrumental in forming one of the Premier League’s most solid defenses alongside Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski, contributing to 22 clean sheets over the last two seasons.
Jake O’Brien
Despite limited opportunities under Sean Dyche, O’Brien has flourished under new management, excelling against top attackers like Son Heung-min, Jarrod Bowen, and Bryan Mbeumo, while also chipping in with crucial goals.
James Tarkowski
Tarkowski has been a consistent performer for Everton over the past three years. While his center-back partners have changed, the Toffees now boast a sturdy defensive line. At 32, Moyes may soon need to consider a younger replacement, but for now, Tarkowski remains a reliable presence.
Jarrad Branthwaite
Branthwaite’s future has been the subject of much speculation, and his impressive performances make it easy to see why.
Everton is determined to retain him, with contract talks planned ahead of the move to Bramley-Moore Dock.
Despite interest from Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Liverpool, The Friedkin Group’s investment could secure his place as a cornerstone of the new era.
Vitaliy Mykolenko
A fan favorite, Mykolenko has become a key figure since joining in December 2021. With few alternatives at left-back, the Ukrainian is expected to retain his starting role next season.
Everton secures Christian Norgaard on a free transfer as James Garner retains his place:
Christian Norgaard
Everton is set to pursue Brentford’s Christian Norgaard this summer, with the midfielder reportedly “ticking a lot of boxes” for Moyes. The 31-year-old’s tenacity and leadership have made him a standout performer, and with his contract expiring, Moyes is eager to bring him to Merseyside.
James Garner
Garner has transformed since returning from injury, showcasing his talent under Moyes. Replacing the former Manchester United player would be a challenge, and with Idrissa Gueye providing competition, the duo will vie for a starting spot next season.
Hamza Igamane set to replace Dominic Calvert-Lewin in attack:
Tom Fellows
Everton’s interest in West Brom’s Tom Fellows is well-known, with a winter bid having been rejected. The club plans to renew its pursuit of the winger, whose two goals and 11 assists in the Championship make him an upgrade over Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom, who may not feature next season.
Dwight McNeil
Injuries have hampered Moyes’ ability to secure wins, with McNeil and Iliman Ndiaye sidelined for extended periods. However, McNeil is expected to thrive in the new system once fully fit.
Iliman Ndiaye
Ndiaye has been a bright spot in Everton’s attack, scoring six league goals before his recent injury. His return could complete Moyes’ forward line, though the club may prioritize his recovery ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Hamza Igamane
While Beto has impressed recently, Everton needs a prolific striker to climb the Premier League table.
The club is reportedly targeting Rangers’ Hamza Igamane, who has scored 14 goals in 37 appearances since joining from FAR Rabat.
The 22-year-old Moroccan’s potential has attracted attention across Europe, and Moyes hopes to bring him to Merseyside.
With The Friedkin Group’s support, relegation battles should become a thing of the past as Moyes builds a new project at Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium. The influx of new talent promises an exciting summer for the Toffees.