adminOver recent years, Everton have become a sleeping giant who have ultimately failed to replicate the success of previous generations who established them as one of England’s biggest clubs.
The Toffees have endured a run of a decade without any form of European football, with qualification for such a stage previously being an expectation demanded by the supporters.
During his second spell as manager on Merseyside, David Moyes will be hoping to end such a drought and guide the side back to the heights they previously reached.
However, if the Scotsman is to restore the glory days to the North West in the near future, he will have to do so without one of the club’s modern-day legends.
Why Idrissa Gueye is one of Everton’s modern-day legends
It’s extremely rare for players in the modern era to enjoy two successful separate spells at the same club, but Idrissa Gueye is a player who certainly fits into that category.
The Senegalese international was an influential figure in the Toffees’ senior ranks between 2016-2019 and 2022-26 – regularly being one of the standout performers at the heart of the midfield.
He accumulated 240 appearances during those periods on Merseyside, subsequently contributing 10 goals across all competitions during his aforementioned outings.
His contributions at both ends of the pitch undoubtedly made him a fan favourite among the supporters, with the experienced midfielder frequently providing a tireless presence.
However, at 37, the hierarchy decided that it was the appropriate time to allow him to move on and opted against offering him a new deal after his previous contract expired.
As a result, he has since joined Saudi Arabian side Al Diriyah and brought an end to his remarkable spell as a first-team regular as a Toffee.
How Everton have failed to replace Gueye this summer
Gueye’s subsequent departure from the Hill Dickinson left a significant void at the heart of Moyes’ midfield – and one which has failed to be filled in recent months.
Christian Norgaard was the only midfield recruit during the recent summer window, but the 32-year-old is yet to feature for the Toffees after arriving from Arsenal with a muscle injury.
The Danish international could prove to be a reliable addition, but considering his age and fitness concerns, it remains uncertain how successful he will be on Merseyside.
Academy graduate Harrison Armstrong is another player who has featured in such a role since the Senegalese international’s departure, and has partnered James Garner in the centre of the side.
Both players are predominantly ball-playing options who prefer to operate in possession, with the side currently missing the commanding ball-winner that Gueye’s presence provided.
How Everton can land the next Gueye this winter
After the difficulties during the closing stages of the summer transfer window, Angus Kinnear has found himself the subject of criticism from the Everton fanbase.
However, he has an opportunity to restore the confidence shown in him during the upcoming winter window and bring in players capable of strengthening Moyes’ senior squad.
The central midfield department is one area that could be enhanced, with links to a potential move for Juventus star Teun Koopmeiners emerging in recent days.
It has been reported by TEAMtalk that the Toffees investigated a move for the Dutchman during the recent window and could return for him in the months ahead.
The Italian giants are reportedly keen to retain the 28-year-old at present, but could potentially decide to sell the experienced star if an offer of £21m is submitted.
The former Atalanta man may be an unfamiliar name to many supporters, but he is a player who possesses considerable quality and one who could replace the influence of Gueye.
His statistics from the ongoing campaign highlight his impressive defensive work, while giving Moyes the ball-winning presence he desires at the centre of the team.
Koopmeiners has won a remarkable average of 2.1 aerial duels per 90 so far in 2026/27, allowing him to frequently regain possession for his side this term.
That figure has seen him outperform 96% of players in his position, highlighting his impressive ability to disrupt the opposition’s attacking progress.
The Dutchman has also recorded an impressive 6.2 ball recoveries per 90 this campaign, placing him above 85% of midfielders in Europe’s top-five leagues.
Such a statistic underlines his excellent ability to disrupt play in the middle of the pitch, which could allow him to replicate the qualities Gueye offered on Merseyside.
£21m for a player of his calibre would represent an excellent piece of business from Kinnear and one which could address a significant weakness within the senior squad.
Gueye’s departure has created a considerable gap within Moyes’ ranks in recent weeks, with Koopmeiners a player who is more than capable of providing the quality needed for years to come.
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