Everton made a last-gasp move to sign Joshua Zirkzee on transfer deadline day, but Manchester United knocked back the Toffees’ loan offer.
Ndiaye Sale Sparks Attacking Reshuffle
The Merseyside club’s search for a new striker intensified after Iliman Ndiaye completed a move to Manchester City earlier on Tuesday. With their forward line thinned out, Everton turned their attention to reinforcements before the window slammed shut.
Balogun Medical Falls Through
Folarin Balogun looked set to be Everton’s first choice, and the USA international even underwent a medical at the club. However, the deal collapsed after Everton baulked at the agent commission required to get it over the line. Balogun subsequently returned to Monaco, leaving the Toffees back at square one.
£10m Loan Offer Knocked Back
Scrambling for an alternative, Everton lodged a £10m loan proposal for Zirkzee, but United rejected the approach. The Old Trafford club view the Dutchman as important cover up front and were unwilling to sanction his exit with so little time left to bring in a replacement of their own.
Zirkzee Open to Move, But Must Wait
Sources suggest Zirkzee himself was receptive to the switch, keen on the promise of regular football at Goodison Park. For now, though, he stays at United, with a January move potentially back on the table.
Everton, meanwhile, are left light up front, with Thierno Barry now their only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure.