Everton face an uncomfortable problem heading into the January transfer window. David Moyes needs another centre-forward, yet the club must find a solution without committing substantial funds to the wrong profile.
The Toffees entered the 2026/27 campaign hoping to build on their improved organisation under Moyes. However, their summer business left a significant gap in attack, with Beto joining Fiorentina for a reported £14.6m and a proposed move for Folarin Balogun collapsing before the deadline.
Thierno Barry consequently carries much of the responsibility up front. The Frenchman has shown encouraging signs, but relying on one recognised senior striker across a demanding Premier League campaign leaves little room for injuries, suspension or a prolonged loss of form.
Moyes therefore needs recruitment options who can improve his squad without placing additional pressure on Everton’s finances.
Why Everton reportedly passed on the experienced striker
According to Sport Witness, which cited Argentine outlet TyC Sports, Everton have been linked with Mauro Icardi, who left Galatasaray in July 2026. However, his financial demands appear to present a significant obstacle.
TyC Sports reported on 21 October that Valencia abandoned their pursuit after the Argentine requested €5m, approximately £4.3m. Real Betis have considered the 33-year-old as well, although the reported asking price presents a similar challenge. The figure refers to the reported demand, not a confirmed Everton offer.
Icardi scored 14 league goals and provided one assist in 31 appearances during his final Turkish league campaign in 2025/26. He offers proven penalty-box instincts, intelligent movement and reliable finishing, but Everton would need to assess his fitness, wages and suitability for Moyes’ approach before considering a commitment of this size.
Should Everton prioritise a younger striker over an expensive veteran?
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
There is a strong case for pursuing Club Brugge forward Nicolò Tresoldi instead. The 22-year-old Germany Under-21 international has reportedly scored nine goals in 12 appearances across all competitions this season, including a Champions League hat-trick against Inter Milan. Everton scouts watched him against Lens on 21 October, according to recent reports.
Tresoldi would require a transfer fee, and competition for his signature could push the price higher. Nevertheless, his age and potential resale value offer a different financial proposition from a sizeable payment to a 33-year-old free agent.
Moyes traditionally values commitment, physical presence and intelligent movement from his centre-forward. Icardi could supply goals, but his limited involvement without the ball raises questions about his suitability for Everton’s collective approach.
Barry needs competition, not another expensive gamble. Everton cannot afford to confuse urgency with sound recruitment. A younger striker may need time to settle, yet a carefully negotiated deal could serve the club for several seasons rather than provide a brief answer to an immediate problem.