Everton has been dealing with financial problems due to FFP issues, resulting in a limited budget for signings. Most players have been brought in on free transfers or for low fees. Some of the recent additions include Youssef Chermiti, Jack Harrison, and Beto, with Beto being the most expensive signing at just over £10m.
The club has made some questionable spending decisions in the past, with big money signings like Davy Klassen and Jean-Phillippe Gbamin failing to make an impact. Despite this, manager Sean Dyche has shown faith in young talent like Jarrad Branthwaite and James Garner, who have become regular first-team players.
However, not all signings have been successful. Former Manchester United winger Ashley Young joined the team on a free transfer but has struggled to make an impact. At 38 years old, Young has only managed 20 appearances and has been sent off in a high-profile game against Liverpool. He has also been blocking the progress of promising young defender Nathan Patterson.
Despite his experience and reputation, Young has not contributed with any goals or assists and has received an average rating of 6.6. His wages of £40k-per-week are higher than some younger players with more potential, and the club will have spent nearly £2m on his wages by the end of his contract this year.
It’s clear that Young’s time at Everton has not been a success and the club should not look to extend his contract. Instead, they should focus on giving more playing time to promising young players like Patterson in the future.
