Everton will take the step forward this season and bring European football to Hill Dickinson Stadium, after missing out on qualification last season.
David Moyes’ side looked for a long time to be on course for at least a place in the Europa Conference League, but eventually finished in 13th place – four points behind eighth-placed Brighton, who secured the last European ticket.
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Now the Toffees are starting to move in the transfer window. A deal with Middlesbrough for attacking midfielder Hayden Hackney is reportedly in place, and now it looks like Everton will complete a double attack from Chelsea.
According to BBC Sport, Everton are closing in on a permanent deal for winger Tyrique George, who was on loan at the Toffees for four months last season. In addition, Fabrizio Romano reports that they are also ready to complete a transfer for Chelsea academy product Arthur Barratt.
George made 11 appearances for Everton in the second half of last season, but failed to score or assist. The U21 international has made 37 appearances for Chelsea’s first team, with six goals and six assists – but is expected to be considered redundant by Xabi Alonso.
The 20-year-old still has great potential, and Everton’s hope is that he shows more in blue than he did during his loan spell.
The 16-year-old Barratt is likely to be a signing for the future, but he is highly regarded at Cobham and was wanted by several other Premier League clubs. The teenager is expected to replace young Demi Akarakiri, who is on his way to Serie A club Cagliari.
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