It feels like Everton’s summer will hinge on what happens elsewhere, rather than them actually forcing the issue.
After all, they hardly boast the pulling power they once did, both regarding the stature of the club and their financial position.
They cannot tempt stars from Barcelona or Real Madrid to sample Merseyside anymore, nor can they convince English talent that the Toffees are well on their way to becoming a superpower once again.
Sean Dyche is stuck managing with both hands tied behind his back.
However, both he and Kevin Thelwell have already made clear their intentions to pounce on one beneficial occurrence that has already happened before the summer transfer window has even opened.
Everton set to hold transfer talks over Jack Harrison
In a report courtesy of the Liverpool ECHO, the Toffees’ plans regarding the future of Jack Harrison are outlined.
Having already penned their intention to negotiate with Leeds United once again upon the expiry of his loan deal, fans were met with silence on that front, instead forced to wait and see how that might pan out.
Well, with the Whites having just lost in the play-off final against Southampton yesterday, their bargaining position has strengthened.
The 27-year-old has no intentions of playing Championship football, and given Everton comfortably remained in the Premier League, the disparity might prove pivotal.
It is noted that: ‘Everton will enter talks with Leeds United hoping that the 1-0 defeat to Southampton in the Championship play-off final boosts their chances of signing Jack Harrison on a permanent deal as Adam Armstrong’s 24th minute strike earned an instant Premier League return for the Saints.
‘Although there was neither an obligation or option to buy Harrison from Leeds United in his season-long loan deal at Goodison Park, Blues chiefs’ hand could now be strengthened by the fact that the Yorkshire club will be unable to offer him Premier League football next term.’
Jack Harrison fits Sean Dyche’s system well
This would mark intelligent business from Dyche and Thelwell, to keep together a squad that comfortably retained the club’s top-flight status for the first time in years.
It was refreshing to watch the final few matches of the season free from relegation threats, and Harrison admittedly played a huge role in that success.
Although his six goal contributions in the league were not the most remarkable return, it was clear that his role within the system was of paramount importance to the manager, who handed him 25 league starts.
The£90k-a-week speedster’s work rate remained faultless, and the Everton faithful recognised that.
He, in turn, lauded their reciprocal support: ‘You see how much it means to the fans when you’re working hard and for me, I’ve always said that’s the least you can do.
‘I always try to replicate that. It’s an honour to be out there and to leave everything out there is what I always try to do. It’s nice that the Everton fans pick up on that.’
Having bought into the club already, a return for another season makes sense for all parties. It is just down to Everton and Leeds United to iron out the details now.