Despite Everton finishing in a rather disappointing 11th place this season- and even being knocked out of the Europa League back in March- hopes are still high for the future of the Goodison Park club and manager Roberto Martinez is determined not to let them make another slow start to next season.
The Spaniard is already planning on setting a special 60 session summer training schedule for his players that will begin on 6th July. The former Wigan boss wants to avoid the problems they faced at the beginning of last season when his players weren’t quite fit or focused enough for the rigours of a Premier League campaign, coupled with the fact that a number of players were feeling the after effects of the 2014 World Cup.
The blues managed to finish in fifth spot in 2013/14 which gave them a place in the UEFA Europa League group stages meaning that they could enjoy some European football. Unfortunately, the toffees couldn’t progress past the last 16 and eventually went out to Ukrainian side Dynamo Kyiv. Despite that setback, the European experience should stand Martinez’ side in good stead for the future and interestingly enough the toffees are amongst the favourites with many online bookmakers to make a charge for a top European place next season. However, a lot depends on this transfer window.
Typically the summer transfer market is rife with rumours and hearsay and Everton are amongst the clubs who are currently being linked with a number of new potential signings, one of whom is Genk midfielder Kara Mbodj. A number of teams across Europe are said to be monitoring the Senegalese defensive midfielder and he’s on the market for around £4 million. Although Everton are crying out for a defensively-minded midfielder, they face competition from Premier League rivals West Ham and Leicester City to sign the 24- year- old.
The toffees may also be looking to do a deal with former manager David Moyes, who is currently coaching Spanish side Real Sociedad. Iceland striker Alfred Finnbogason could be heading to Goodison Park on loan to help the 26 year old gain a little more experience before returning to La Liga. If Finnbogason moves to Merseyside It will certainly be a useful coup for the Merseysiders and give them another goal scoring option up front.
Along with Finnbogason, the club have allegedly set their eye on West Brom striker Saido Berahino as well as Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann to help tighten things up at the back after conceding 50 goals last season in the Premier League. The blues could also make an approach for Celta Vigo star Nolito, although their hopes of pulling off that one may be scuppered as Atletico Madrid look set to make an offer for the Spanish international.
