Everton already seem to be compiling a list of summer transfer targets, despite their well-documented financial limitations.
Kevin Thelwell has been forced to admit that their dire position makes them susceptible to bids from rivals, however that will not stop him from wading into the market and seeking to come out with a bargain or two.
And, having already worked well last summer to welcome some shrewd signings with delayed permanent fees, as well as loan deals too, his methods are clear.
So, it will be interesting to see how the Toffees tackle the task of tempting Florentino Luis from Benfica, who is once again on their radar.
Everton want Florentino Luis this summer transfer window
Having tried to acquire the Portuguese maestro back in January, Everton are now poised to reaffirm their interest in the 24-year-old throughout another window.
That is according to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, who actually state that Sean Dyche is the man leading the charge to try and acquire Luis.
The report states: ‘Led by Sean Dyche, the Liverpool club can move forward soon with a significant proposal to guarantee Florentino, whose name last summer was associated with Barcelona, having already played for Getafe after an experience in Monaco, to transfer away from Benfica.’
Such a deal would represent a key acquisition for Thelwell, but it promises to be a tough one to orchestrate.
After all, this is no ordinary player, with Luis’ partnership with Enzo Fernandez becoming particularly legendary during the 2022/23 season. This even led to him being offered a new contract, which boasts a reported €120m (£102m) buyout clause.
Are Everton planning for a future without Amadou Onana?
To be sniffing around such a well-respected defensive midfielder, who will likely not come cheap given the pedigree his form has already earned in Portugal.
The £32k-a-week enforcer has earned acclaim for the manner in which he screens his backline, even earning loose comparisons to N’Golo Kante.
However, he is much more than just a ball-winner, and in fact stars across the board for not only his ability to win back the ball, but to then progress it.
When compared to other midfielders across Europe outside of the top five leagues, he actually ranks in the top 1% for tackling and interceptions per 90, and the top 5% for blocks per 90. Yet he blends this with passing perfection, sitting in the top 3% for passes attempted, 5% for pass completion, and 7% for progressive passes, all per 90, via FBref.
With Amadou Onana linked with Arsenal, amongst many other top clubs, it could make sense to try and ship him on for an astronomical sum and in turn tempt Luis to trial this Premier League project.