Everton have collected ten points from eight Premier League matches so far this season, recording two wins, four draws and two defeats. David Moyes kept the Toffees competitive, although eight goals scored and nine conceded highlighted the need for greater consistency across the pitch.
The middle ground remains an area of great vigilance. James Garner continues to offer support and training, while youngsters Harrison Armstrong and Hayden Hackney provide additional options. Christian Nørgaard, however, has struggled to find his best form following a summer injury, leaving Moyes with questions about his long-term balance in midfield and the options available to strengthen it.
Advertisement
On the pitch, the Friedkin Group’s decision to sell Verton has created further uncertainty. With the ownership situation resolved, the club should consider spending carefully, especially after the reported fees of 22 pounds were invested in Brennan Johnson, 21m in Merlin Röhl and 18m in Tyrique George in the summer. Those commitments could influence how Moyes aggressively pursues further additions in January.
Could the Rangers midfielder strengthen Verton’s midfield?
According to Goodison News, former Scotland manager Gordon Strachan believes Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin could be dealt to the Premier League, naming Verton in particular as a suitable destination.
Speaking about the Open End, Strachan said: “He’s not in that top six in England or anything like that. That underground group can go to Everton, things like that, he could play there, no problem.”
Advertisement
The 25-year-old is interested in a summer transfer to Belgium after representing his country at the 2026 World Cup. He remains at Rangers, but uncertainty surrounds his future as his contract approaches the final year.
Raskin has made seven Scottish Premiership appearances this season so far, starting all seven and scoring one goal in 595 minutes. His 87.3% passing accuracy and 40 ball recoveries suggest he can offer the distribution and defensive work Everton needs from a midfielder.
Will Verton pursue Raskin despite ownership uncertainty?
DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 17: Nicolas Raskin of Rangers celebrates the team’s second goal in the William Hill Premiership 2026/27, between Dundee and Glasgow Rangers at Dens Park Stadium on October 17, 2026 in Dundee, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)
Advertisement
Raskin offers qualities Verton could use in a midfield built around defensive discipline and quick passing. His strength and ability to win the ball could complement Garner, while his age gives the club room to develop him for several seasons. However, Verton must decide whether to admit to their current weaknesses before making a deal.
Uncertain ownership could limit January spending, while the club needs improvements across a number of positions. Earlier, Nathan Patterson’s difficult spell joining from Rangers also gives Verton reason to carefully evaluate Scottish Premiership recruitments rather than assume success.
Moyes should keep Raskin in his brief, but Everton should not commit significant sums of money without considering their own financial situation and the wider needs of the squad. If Nørgaard cannot regain his best form, the Belgian could make a sensible long-term offer, provided Rangers can accept a realistic fee and Verton can afford the deal.