It constantly feels like one step forward then one step back at Everton, and the news that the season is over for Jack Grealish makes it feel like there is pressure on doing a deal before the window shuts. It is already clear the Toffees' squad is small and any injury or absence impacts David Moyes' selection. Everton have also had bids come in for their own players too, with Lazio looking at Tim Iroegbunam and Beto the subject of a rejected bid from Fenerbache.
It constantly feels like one step forward then one step back at Everton, and the news that the season is over for Jack Grealish makes it feel like there is pressure on doing a deal before the window shuts.
It is already clear the Toffees' squad is small and any injury or absence impacts David Moyes' selection.
On Friday, the manager insisted the club was attempting to bolster the numbers: "We are certainly looking. It is not that we are shying away from it but it is more unlikely than likely. I think we are seeing this window become a difficult one for a lot of teams."
Everton have also had bids come in for their own players too, with Lazio looking at Tim Iroegbunam and Beto the subject of a rejected bid from Fenerbache. A big reason neither have moved so far is down to numbers.
Moyes has stressed "we are not planning for it [players leaving] but they might do", highlighting the need for replacements. Beto has scored three goals this season and lost out in the battle for the striker role to Thierno Barry - though he did come off the bench to score the 97th-minute equaliser that snatched a point at Brighton on Saturday.
Iroebugnam has only been given a starting place in midfielder if Idrissa Gueye has been unavailable.
Profit and sustainability issues are no longer a problem, with owners The Friedkin Group clearing debts to give the club a clean balance sheet. That being the case, the Blues won't be forced to sell anyone before the deadline.
I see it being summer before the next part of rebuilding is under way. If Everton can find a loan deal before 19:00 GMT on Monday then that could be the best fit - and they are close to bringing in winger Tyrique George from Chelsea with an option to buy.
A right-back has been top of the shopping list for some time, along with a left-back, but I don't think either will be fixed with a short-term solution before the winter window shuts.
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Category: General Sports
