Exclusive: Everton have three-man transfer shortlist, one deal is most likely by far

Everton will not be able to seal moves for all three of Jack Grealish, John Stones and Ben White this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The trio would all require significant financial commitment from the Toffees, who are not capable of managing the wages of all three stars within their squad for next term.

A move to keep Grealish is understood to be the most likely deal of the three at the moment, with sources indicating that the Merseysiders are keen to negotiate a fresh loan deal with Manchester City.

There is also a willingness from Grealish and his camp to continue his time at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, while Manchester City see little future for him at the Etihad.

Everton want to be ambitious in the market once again this summer, but Grealish remains their most likely statement addition at the moment.

John Stones and Ben White deals to be beyond Everton

Stones’ imminent departure has already seen him linked with a whole host of clubs, while a return to Everton is also something that could potentially be in the pipeline.

The 31-year-old is set to hold out for a substantial package for his next deal, with no transfer fee needed to secure his signature this summer.

Stones has interest from clubs across Europe, and the wide array of options that he has available is set to make it difficult for Everton to compete for a deal.

White is also an unlikely deal at this stage, with a significant fee set to be needed to prise him away from Arsenal, where he still has two years remaining on his contract.

The England international has struggled for gametime at the Emirates Stadium this term, but Jurrien Timber’s injury has opened the door for him to take on a bigger role in recent weeks.

Everton’s interest in both defenders is clear, but a lot will need to fall into place for either to join David Moyes’ group ahead of next term.

Toffees set for familiar transfer priority

Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider earlier this week that Everton’s priority is to add further attacking quality, just as they tried to last summer.

The former recruitment man worked closely with Moyes during his time in charge at the London Stadium, and he feels that the Scot is not satisfied with his current attacking options.

Grealish has been identified as the “priority” to help address that issue, but Brown understands that the Toffees are hoping that he will only be the start of their attacking reinforcements.

Both Beto and Thierno Barry have struggled in front of goal for large spells this season, and a new striker is also seen as a necessity.

Brown noted that a move for Grealish, either permanently or another loan, “makes sense for all parties,” and Everton are determined to make it happen in the coming months.

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