Why Carlos Alcaraz's full-time gesture in Preston vs Everton could signal exit

Carlos Alcaraz seems to have accepted that his Everton career is over.

The Argentinian attacking midfielder signed permanently at the Hill Dickinson Stadium last summer, after a promising loan spell.

He only featured 22 times last time around, and has come off the bench in both games this season.

Alcaraz played nine minutes in the 4-0 win over Preston in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening.

It is safe to say his time under David Moyes has not gone as planned, as he has just one goal and one assist since returning for a £12million fee.

However, something that was spotted after proceedings had finished at Deepdale may signal that the end is near for the flop.

What did Carlos Alcaraz do after Preston vs Everton?

Alcaraz has been the subject of interest from River Plate back in his homeland and Turkish side Besiktas.

The Blues would surely consider if a genuine approach is made for his services.

The 23-year-old seems to have recognised that his fate is no longer with the L3 outfit, after what was seen against the Lilywhites.

Ben Grounds, who works for TNT Sports, spotted a gesture as the player made his feelings clear at full-time.

Taking to X after the result, he said: "Tonight felt like the moment Carlos Alcaraz accepted defeat in his Everton career.

"Applauded the 6,000 travelling fans right on full-time before cutting an isolated figure as he quickly about-turned and walked alone towards the tunnel.

"Hard not to feel for him even in a 4-0 win."

That definitely seems like an acceptance that his time with the People's Club is over.

What has gone wrong for Alcaraz at Everton?

Alcaraz was electric when he came on loan, notching two goals and three assists in 16 games.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's arrival in the same position showed that Moyes wasn't too impressed though and thought he could do better.

Alcaraz could not replicate his previous impact when he did get a chance, which hampered his opportunities to get in the side.

The Englishman is just too good, and too consistent, with eight goals and four assists in his first season on Merseyside.

Alcaraz has little chance to overhaul his teammate this season, as Dewsbury-Hall already has one goal in two matches.

The latter was also absolutely crucial in the victory over Preston, despite not getting in on the goals or assists.

He is far better player than Alcaraz, and as a result, the former Southampton man has struggled to get a look in.