Any contingency plans for the Championship can be ripped up. If Sean Dyche and Kevin Thelwell had been preparing for the worst then there is no need to press on.
Everton are a Premier League club for another season. They have avoided relegation comfortably despite being deducted eight points. The Toffees’ proud top-flight record will continue.
But Dyche is well aware that there is plenty of work still to be done. Everton are still in a precarious position financially, while the protracted 777 Partners takeover saga continues.
The Blues boss has insisted that the club won’t ‘necessarily’ have to sell assets to meet profit and sustainability rules. But it’s likely that Everton will again be working on a strict budget. Dyche and director of football Thelwell will have to be savvy with how they operate when it comes to incomings.
Given that funds may be tight, utilising the free-agent market. The Toffees signed Ashley Young last summer and James Tarkowski arrived for nothing in the summer of 2022.
With that in mind, here’s a look at some players whose current contracts are coming to a close could fit the bill for Everton.
1. Callum O'Hare - Coventry
The attacking midfielder has enjoyed a fine season for the Sky Blues, recording 10 goals and four assists. A step up to the Premier League surely beckons and he could be an option to feature as a No.10 for Everton.
2. Wilfred Ndidi - Leicester City
Helped the Foxes win the Championship title this season but is yet to commit his future at the King Power Stadium. Ndidi is likely to be a man in demand if he does leave Leicester.
3. Che Adams - Southampton
The striker has scored 16 goals for the Saints this season. He has been linked with Everton in the past.
4. Josh Brownhill - Burnley
Someone who Dyche signed while Turf Moor boss. The midfielder has more than 100 Premier League appearances under his belt and has been a regular for Burnley this term. Could be a decent squad player.