“An issue”- Bad news for Moyes as Everton hit with stumbling block over 28-goal ace
Everton are actively seeking new signings this summer, with a striker at the top of their wishlist. However, a potential transfer for Aleksandar Mitrovic appears unlikely at this stage.
Since returning to Everton in January, David Moyes has aimed to elevate the team’s performance after securing their Premier League status.
His efforts have been commendable, guiding the Toffees to a 13th-place finish with 48 points.
With several players set to depart, Everton faces a busy transfer window ahead. The futures of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Armando Broja remain uncertain, with Broja expected to return to Chelsea following his loan spell.
This creates a clear need for Everton to bolster their attacking options, and Mitrovic has been linked with a move to Goodison Park. Yet, Moyes faces a significant obstacle.
The key hurdle in signing Aleksandar Mitrovic
Despite some improvement in Everton’s goal-scoring last season—thanks in part to Beto’s development under Moyes—the team still requires additional firepower.
Former Everton manager Marco Silva is a known admirer of Mitrovic, who could be a valuable asset if signed.
The main sticking point, however, is Mitrovic’s salary demands. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, a meeting took place between Al-Hilal and Mitrovic’s representatives.
Although Al-Hilal are open to selling the striker, his €15 million net salary remains a barrier for interested clubs in both the Premier League and Serie A.
For a transfer to move forward, Mitrovic would need to reduce his wage demands, or Al-Hilal would have to agree to a loan deal where they cover part of his salary.
What would work best for Everton
It was expected that Mitrovic’s high wages in Saudi Arabia would deter European clubs. Few, if any, can match that figure, making it unlikely for a direct purchase.
Mitrovic may understand this and might consider lowering his salary expectations if he wants to return to Europe.
The best-case scenario for Everton would be to secure Mitrovic on loan with Al-Hilal paying a portion of his wages.
This arrangement would reduce the financial risk for Everton, especially since it’s uncertain how the striker would perform in the Premier League after spending two years in Saudi Arabia.
