With the new Premier League season now less than a month away from kicking off on August 21, pre-season friendlies are about to get into full swing as the majority of clubs jet off around the globe to ensure the best possible preparation for the 2026-27 campaign. However, due to the World Cup, a number of squads are far from full strength as those who reached the knockout rounds in North America enjoy some belated time off, creating opportunities for others to stake their claim for greater roles over the next 10 months.
Manchester United have identified Everton star Iliman Ndiaye as a primary transfer target this summer, but a move for the Senegal international is currently at a standstill. The Red Devils are reportedly unable to progress with a formal bid due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Marcus Rashford’s future at the club.
Questions continue to be asked of what the future holds for Jack Grealish, but Joleon Lescott has told GOAL that “no conversations” have taken place regarding a move to MLS. For now, the Manchester City-owned forward is looking to enjoy a fresh start at the Etihad Stadium or build on a productive loan spell with Everton - as a permanent transfer could still be agreed there.
Everton are reportedly considering a surprise summer transfer move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence as he searches for regular first-team football. David Moyes is keen to bolster his options at right-back, and the Toffees believe they can tempt the England international away from north London with the promise of consistent Premier League starts.
Enzo Maresca's arrival may present Jack Grealish with the chance to resurrect his Manchester City, according to reports. The England international had appeared destined for a permanent exit this summer, but the change in management at the Etihad Stadium has dramatically shifted the landscape for the 30-year-old winger.
Hayden Hackney is a man in demand, with former Middlesbrough star Gary Pallister telling GOAL why the talented midfielder could tread a similar career path to England international and £130 million ($172m) Manchester City transfer target Elliot Anderson. Having proven himself in the EFL ranks, classy playmaker Hackney is ready to take the Premier League by storm.
Everton have made a preliminary move to sign West Ham United winger Jarrod Bowen during the summer transfer window. The Toffees have established initial contact regarding the 29-year-old, who is fully expected to depart the London Stadium in the coming weeks to maintain his status in the top flight.
The Premier League fixture list for 2026-27 has been released. Arsenal will be looking to defend their title, while the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United have sights locked on the ultimate prize. Coventry are back in the big time after a 25-year absence, while several managerial changes mean that new eras are being ushered in across the division. Here, GOAL picks out the most notable matches from what promises to be another thrilling top-flight campaign.
Jordan Pickford has been England’s No.1 for the best part of a decade, but where does the Everton star rank on the Premier League goalkeeper chart? Former Liverpool, Aston Villa, Manchester City and Three Lions shot-stopper David James has answered that question during an exclusive interview with GOAL - as a proven performer is placed in illustrious company.
Jordan Pickford has stated his desire to take a penalty for England, but would the Everton goalkeeper be picked to step up in a shootout if a 2026 World Cup fixture went the distance? Former Three Lions shot-stopper David James has told GOAL what Thomas Tuchel’s stance is likely to be, with history dictating that plans do need to be drawn up in that department.
The Premier League has announced a comprehensive suite of mandatory law changes and officiating guidelines ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. Developed in tandem with PGMOL and informed by an extensive annual football survey, the updates heavily target time-wasting tactics while refining the threshold for video assistant referee interventions.
Everton have been ordered to pay Burnley nearly £40 million in a landmark compensation ruling that could reshape how financial breaches are handled in English football. The payout follows a protected legal battle regarding the Toffees' breach of Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) during the 2021-22 season.
Jack Grealish “having a pint” is actually “quite refreshing” in the modern era, Everton legend Peter Reid has told GOAL, with fans on Merseyside hoping to see a deal struck in the summer transfer window that brings a colourful character back to the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Manchester City-owned Grealish saw a productive loan spell with the Toffees in 2025-26 cut short by injury.
Everton and Brighton are reportedly set to battle it out for the signature of Torino midfielder Cesare Casadei. The Italian youngster has enjoyed a productive debut season in Serie A, reigniting interest from the Premier League just a year after his permanent departure from Chelsea.
Everton are interested in signing Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal this summer, but financial obstacles could complicate any potential deal. The Toffees view the Brazilian as a solution to their attacking problems, although concerns over his wages, fitness record and transfer fee remain significant hurdles.
Borussia Dortmund have set their sights on Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam following his impressive performances in the Premier League. The 22-year-old talent has attracted major interest from top European clubs, with both Dortmund and Stuttgart planning to make their moves. However, Everton are determined to keep hold of their rising star ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Harry Kane will “half want to come back” to the Premier League once his adventure at Bayern Munich is over, Peter Reid has told GOAL. An England icon of the past would like to see one of the present make his way to Everton, but appreciates that may be slightly ambitious and has explained what makes the Three Lions’ all-time leading goalscorer special.
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