The transfer window has only just slammed shut but Everton will have a list of targets that remain on the club’s radar.
The Blues had to be aware of financial constraints throughout the summer but were still able to bring in five signings to bolster their ranks.
Both Beto and Arnaut Danjuma have made an early impact for Everton, who will soon hope to hand Jack Harrison his debut. But it will not be too long before the Blues begin plotting their next moves.
With that in mind, here’s a look at five players who have entered the final year of their contract and could head to Goodison Park on a free transfer by this time next year.
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Nico Elvedi
Starting in defence, Everton were linked with a move for the Borussia Monchengladbach centre-back during the recent transfer window.
The Switzerland international, 26, has been a mainstay of Gladbach’s defence since 2016 and has played Champions League and Europa League football during his time with the club. Elvedi has admitted that it was an "intense" transfer window, in terms of his own future, but has been brought back into Gladbach’s first team.
Jarrad Branthwaite looks to be a long-term fit at centre-back for the Blues but they may well want to freshen up their other options.
Ian Maatsen
Everton could attempt an ambitious move for Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen next summer.
The 21-year-old has featured in four games under Mauricio Pochettino already this season and is highly-rated after helping Burnley earn promotion last term. The Lancashire side reportedly attempted to sign Maatsen in a £32m deal but he wanted to fight for
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