Everton have no plans to recall Nathan Broadhead in January
Everton loanee, Nathan Broadhead, is enjoying great form for Sunderland and could be recalled in January before his season long deal expires.
The 23-year-old has scored five goals in 14 appearances for Sunderland so far this season and continues to impress in League One.
Broadhead joined Sunderland on loan in the summer, but Everton are keen on retaining the Welsh U21 with no clause to convert his loan spell into a permanent move at the Stadium of Light.
According to the Chronicle, there is currently no indication that the Toffees will recall the forward as he continues to play regularly on Wearside.
However, with as many as 10 first team players unable to face Chelsea in the week through injury or the increasing threat of COVID-19; Everton may well be assessing all of their options.
“No, there’s no clause in there to turn it into a permanent transfer,” said Sunderland Head Coach, Lee Johnson on Broadhead’s loan deal.
“At the same time, we are very happy with Nathan and he is very happy here.
“Obviously, it’s all change at Everton at the moment and it’s something we need to discuss in terms of introducing ourselves – and Nathan as well – to whoever they are coming in because a lot of contacts that we had there have now left the football club.
“The important thing with Nathan is that he has this run of games, he’s done extremely well, and I think he is thoroughly enjoying himself, so let’s keep our fingers crossed with that one [that he will be allowed to stay].”
Are things this bad?
Everton’s poor run of form has seen a much-needed reshuffle of their backroom staff.
Director of football Marcel Brands has left in recent weeks, and was followed by head of recruitment and development Gretar Steinsson, accompanied by new manager of scouting Dan Purdy.
The Blues might turn to youth as they look to enter a new era after Everton’s youngsters thought so heroically to earn Everton a point at Stamford Bridge midweek.
Sunderland will now have to forge new relationships with those at Everton to ensure they keep hold of Broadhead, but if Everton do come calling, there is nothing they can do to stop them.
In other Everton news, Rafa Benitez admits Jarrad Branthwaite performances forcing a rethink.