Everton fans are cautiously optimistic going in to pre-season. In Marco Silva, they have a progressive young manager who wants to play an expansive attacking game and in Marcel Brands, they have a cultured director of football who has a proven eye for talent.
It’s a great combination, in theory. Whether it works in practice is a whole different kettle of fish but a lot of the pair’s future success may come down to the quality of their recruits this summer.
A lot of names have been floated around so we’ve taken a closer look at a selection who we think could do the business and set up a poll so you can vote on your favourite.
Hirving Lozano
Young Hirving Lozano made his mark at this year’s World Cup in Russia, scoring the winner in Mexico’s shock win over Germany. The 22-year-old is a player Brands will know very well having played a crucial part in bringing the Mexican to his current club, PSV. While the winger would add quality to the team he would come with a hefty price tag.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek
Most Everton fans will be no stranger to Loftus-Cheek who starred during his loan spell at Crystal Palace. The Chelsea man has publicly voiced his desire for game time next season even if it means a move away from the Champions League club. His strength and skill would be a welcome addition to Everton’s midfield options.
Kieran Tierney
Scottish left back, Kieran Tierney has been subject to fierce transfer speculation over the last month. While the 21-year-old has always maintained that he is happy at Celtic, the Glasgow club have since admitted that they could be willing to sell – if they receive an acceptable offer. Celtic are reportedly expecting in excess of £20m for the youngster.
Domagoj Vida
You might of spotted Vida during the World Cup. Apart from his traditional no-nonsense style of defending Vida is known for his trademark ponytail and has put in some solid performances for Croatia during the tournament. At 29, Vida is no spring chicken but he would certainly shore up Everton’s back line.
Ante Rebic
Another steely Croatian but this one has a bit more flair about him. Showed his class and composure by steering a perfectly executed volley after a despairing Willy Caballero made a dreadful error. Rebic also impressed during his loan spell at Frankfurt last season where he scored a cup final brace to help his side beat Bayern Munich.
Have your say in who you think Everton should go all out to sign by voting below: