Everton are showcasing unbridled ambition this summer, spending where necessary to ensure their squad remains strong.
Whether it is an attempt to convince stars like Jarrad Branthwaite and Amadou Onana to stay, or just to ensure Sean Dyche has all the tools needed to succeed, for Evertonians this marks a refreshing change.
However, despite having secured three deals already, a fourth remains up in the air.
It appears that a transfer tug of war has begun.
Everton still in the race for Jaden Philogene
Fabrizio Romano reported on Everton’s interest in Jaden Philogene just yesterday, taking to X late at night to provide the following update.
He wrote: ‘EXCL: Jaden Philogene’s move to Barcelona looks now complicated and unlikely as he’s giving priority to Premier League move.
‘Understand three clubs have sent him proposals: Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, Everton. Decision expected soon.’
The Toffees have been a long-term suitor of the Hull City winger, whilst Ipswich Town will know him more than most given they spent last season in the same league together.
The tricky winger, described as a player with ‘ridiculous’ quality by former manager Liam Rosenior, has a reported £17m valuation.
Which Premier League team should he choose?
In an attempt to remove bias, it is worth considering which of the three Premier League sides vying for him would be the best option for Philogene.
First, there is Everton. Quite comfortably the biggest club of the English trio, their current position as a side that has just endured three consecutive relegation scraps might not be so attractive.
However, having overcome great adversity last season, and now reinvesting into the squad with the signing of Iliman Ndiaye among others, there is reason for hope.
The prospect of playing in the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium should also appeal to the 22-year-old.
And then there is newly-promoted Ipswich Town, clearly ready to splash the cash and give it a good go at achieving safety.
They play great football and are definitely a club on the up, with a young and exciting manager too. He would be guaranteed a starter, but is likely most at risk of returning straight to the Championship with this move.
Finally, and inarguably the best move for Philogene, would be to go to Crystal Palace.
With a rich history of nurturing talent from the Championship into the Premier League, and given a spot is set to open up when Michael Olise officially leaves for Bayern Munich, this is a move that makes sense.
Dyche and Kevin Thelwell just need to try hard to convince him otherwise.
