**Everton’s Attacking Issues Remain a Concern as Transfer Window Nears Closure**
Everton’s attacking problems are a significant concern, and Kevin Thelwell likely hoped to resolve them before the Premier League season kicked off. Despite strengthening the squad with two new forwards, neither featured in the starting lineup during their heavy opening-day defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion, raising questions among the fans.
Sean Dyche explained that Iliman Ndiaye and Jesper Lindstrom were left out due to their lack of Premier League experience. This suggests that if he intends to boost the team’s firepower before the transfer window closes, he may prefer a player already familiar with the league.
Fortunately, Everton have identified such a target, though whether he would truly enhance the squad remains uncertain.
**Everton Preparing Bid for Eddie Nketiah**
According to TEAMtalk, Everton are finally ready to make a move for a Premier League striker, following extensive speculation about his future.
The report states: “Multiple sources indicate that Everton are preparing a loan bid for Nketiah, who currently finds himself far down the pecking order at Arsenal.”
Marseille and Bournemouth both showed interest in signing Nketiah earlier in August. However, after having two bids rejected and being put off by Arsenal’s €30m (£25.8m) asking price, Marseille opted to sign Elye Wahi from Rennes instead. Bournemouth also moved on, signing FC Porto’s Evanilson to fill the gap left by Dominic Solanke’s transfer to Tottenham.
With Arsenal now struggling to find a new club for Nketiah, Everton are reportedly ready to propose a loan deal, though Arsenal would prefer a permanent sale. A loan deal with an obligation to buy could be a viable compromise.
Everton are also considering Armando Broja as an alternative target, especially if Arsenal remains firm on their high price tag for Nketiah.
**Would Eddie Nketiah Be an Upgrade on Dominic Calvert-Lewin?**
Whoever Everton signs as a striker needs to be an improvement over Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as they would be his replacement. However, when comparing the two, the prospects are concerning, as Nketiah falls short in several areas.
Despite being only two years younger, Nketiah has made just 116 Premier League appearances compared to Calvert-Lewin’s 214. Moreover, Nketiah’s modest tally of 19 goals pales in comparison to the 54 goals Calvert-Lewin has scored for Everton.
The physical differences between the two players are also notable. Calvert-Lewin stands at 6 foot 3 and is known for his excellent hold-up play, among the best in Europe. In contrast, Nketiah, a smaller poacher, might struggle as a lone striker under Dyche, where he would be expected to compete for aerial duels.
Complicating matters further is Calvert-Lewin’s reluctance to sign a new contract with Everton, making the situation even more troubling if Nketiah is the type of signing Thelwell is considering as an alternative.
