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Everton £27m target could now be closer to a move after Wednesday’s developments

Originally posted on HITC | By Brogan Clasper | Last updated Jan 29, 2026 9:05 AM ET

Everton could have just received a significant lift as the winter transfer market nears its close, following developments on Wednesday night.

The January window has so far come and gone without a new arrival at Goodison Park, with fans starting to get anxious about a lack of progress.

David Moyes has yet to see any new faces walk through the door, and it now looks like any deals will be pushed right up against the deadline.

The need for another forward has not faded, and Everton have recently been linked with Jhon Duran as they explore their options.

The number of potential targets continues to rise, but there is one name in particular whose situation has just become more interesting for the Toffees.

Everton have fresh opportunity to sign Ricardo Pepi following recent development

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Ricardo Pepi has been turning heads at PSV Eindhoven this season, and Everton have shown interest in the striker as a potential addition.

But after what happened on Wednesday night, the American forward now faces an interesting decision about his future.

The final round of Champions League group stage matches saw PSV exit the competition, and that result could influence what comes next for both club and player.

PSV’s exit from the Champions League may also prompt Pepi to consider whether there are better opportunities outside of Eindhoven.

Meanwhile, the club might need to make financial adjustments following their early exit and could look to recoup some of the losses by considering offers for players like the American striker.

Everton need to get serious about their own European hopes

Everton fans might be growing tired of the talk around Europe, but a spot in continental competition remains very much within reach this season.

The Premier League is looking strong across all European tournaments, which could mean extra qualification spots become available by season’s end.

Moyes has made it clear that a European place is the goal, and Everton are still within touching distance despite recent setbacks.

Even though form has dipped lately, the Toffees are heading into February still in striking distance of those positions, but they will need to improve squad depth and quality if they are going to put together a consistent run.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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