Two missed summer targets Everton must sign in January
Everton invested a lot of money this summer under the guidance of new manager Marco Silva, bringing in six new faces at the Goodison Park.
The Toffees looked to be in need of changes to their squad after a disappointing season that saw them finish 8th in the table despite solid investment last summer. The squad possessed quality in certain areas but key weaknesses held the team back, which Silva addressed after replacing Sam Allardyce at the Goodison Park.
However, things haven’t gone according to the scripts for the Toffees and Silva’s side were beaten at home by West Ham on Sunday. In what was definitely the most disappointing performance of the season, Everton looked error-strewn and chaotic in a lot of ways and were massively punished by the Hammers.
Sunday’s defeat against West Ham highlighted a lot of things Silva must address once the transfer window reopens. The Portuguese manager could revive his interest in some of his missed targets in January. That being said, here are two missed targets Everton must sign.
Bas Dost (Sporting Lisbon)
According to Liverpool Echo, Sporting Lisbon target man Bas Dost was linked with a move to Everton this summer.
Dost, 29, enjoyed a prolific season at Sporting last term, scoring 27 goals in 30 league appearances. He boasts an amazing goalscoring record since moving to Portugal from German club Wolfsburg.
At 6ft 5in, Dost fits the target man role and feasts on good quality crosses. Strong and robust, the Dutchman is capable of going toe to toe against defenders and usually comes out on top in the aerial duels.
Fantastic in the air, Dost is also known for his predatory instincts and Everton’s creative players, Gylfi Sigurdsson, Theo Walcott and Richarlison will be in for a treat if Dost joins the club.
Oguzhan Ozyakup (Besiktas)
According to Liverpool Echo, Everton were interested in Besiktas midfielder Oguzhan Ozyakup during the summer transfer window.
A star in Turkish football, Ozyakup could be a signing to take Everton to the next level. He is an imaginative and industrious player who would add balance to Silva’s side that has blown hot and cold this season.
The Turkish international excels at delivering defence-splitting passes, attempting long shots and running with the ball.
Read more: Silva could help Everton reap the rewards on the £45m investment they made under Koeman
He would be the sort of player that could form a fierce attacking partnership with his compatriot, Cenk Tosun. It would be great to see Everton push the boat out for a player of his calibre.