EVERTON have to balance the books in the next five days in what could be a major boost for Chelsea and Tottenham’s pursuit of Richarlison, according to reports.
The Toffees’ ongoing battle with financial fair play (FFP) rules mean the London clubs could be best served by moving early.
The Athletic report that the “bulk” of Everton’s incoming transfer business will have to be done after June 30, which could explain the lack of transfers at Goodison Park so far.
The reason for the deadline is due to FFP, which is calculated until the end of June.
The Merseyside club has been under prolonged pressure over their finances, with rivals even attempting to use it against them during last season’s nail-biting relegation battle.
The free-spending start to Farhad Moshiri‘s reign has left the club needing to balance the books.
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Everton have lost £372million over the last three years but the impact of Covid means they have been judged to have dipped under the Premier League’s £105m loss limit.
The strain of FFP was seen on the club last summer, with the £1.7m signing of Demarai Gray the only arrival which cost a fee.
The need to balance the books even further mean Everton are reportedly “likely to lose at least one key player before the September 1 transfer deadline”.
The report adds: “The bulk of Everton’s incomings for this window will have to be done after June 30. With so little wiggle room, the focus for the next few days will be on bringing in money and further reducing costs.”
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The news will put Chelsea and Tottenham on red alert, with Richarlison wanted by both London clubs.
Chelsea are looking for reinforcements to deal with the potential losses of Romelu Lukakuand Hakim Ziyech, while Spurs could use a versatile attacker to relieve some of the attacking load off Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.
The news could also have ramifications for Everton’s move for Harry Winks, with the club having to fend off competition in the fight for the Spurs midfielder.