Paul Brown moots possible transfer embargo at Everton as hearing continues
Paul Brown has suggested a transfer embargo could be placed on Everton if they are found guilty of the alleged financial breaches when the investigation is completed.
The former Express journalist claimed that if things go wrong for Everton at the hearing they could face “all kinds” of penalties, with a transfer embargo a possibility.
This comes amid suggestions that the Toffees will need to strengthen their squad “in all positions” in January, although Brown also claims that they got their key business done in the summer transfer window.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT [5 November], Brown shared his view: “You could argue that they need an upgrade in positions all over the pitch really, but I don’t think Everton are playing too badly. I think they’ve turned the corner.
“I think they’ll pick up results with the squad that they’ve got. There isn’t any massively pressing need because I think they’ve solved their issues up front by bringing in the players that they did in the summer. There may be a question mark still over the fullbacks, I think.
“But the bigger question mark really is not just whether Everton have any money to spend, there’s also the possibility that, if things go wrong for them at this hearing over the next week or so, there’s a possibility of all kinds of penalties and one of those might even be a transfer embargo.
“So, it’s very early to try and speculate about what Everton might do in January. We’ll have to see how things go at the hearing first.”
Plenty of unknowns
Ultimately, the only people who have any idea of what punishment Everton will receive if they are found guilty of financial breaches is the independent panel carrying out the investigation and the hearing.
Rumours of 12-point deductions, transfer embargoes, and other dramatic punishments should be pushed aside until a resolution is met and, of course, the Toffees may be found not guilty anyway, as has been their stance throughout the process so far.
In terms of the January transfer window, a lot of the potential deals could hinge on whether the takeover goes through. Alan Myers shared [] that we could expect to hear about this in December, which may set Everton up for a busy transfer window.
The performances of late have been strong and Dyche is getting the very best out of his side, but it is hard to argue that upgrades won’t be required, as they could in theory improve every player on the pitch.
In other Everton news, an international call could be on the cards for a 21-year-old.