In Focus: Toffees must not stick this summer if they want to improve

It has been a good campaign for Everton — but early season success has raised expectations at Goodison Park.

The Toffees briefly sat top of the table after an impressive start, only for a gradual decline has seen them drop out of contention for Champions League qualification.

As Carlo Ancelotti's men prepare to take on Aston Villa tonight, we consider how the Merysesiders could strengthen their squad to break into the top four next season.

Shrewd business

Last summer was clearly a productive one for the club. The signings of James Rodriguez and Allan were particularly eye-catching and gave an indication of Ancelotti’s pull.

Abdoulaye Doucoure impressed following his move from Watford, while the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison improved with added quality around them.

The hope will be for a similarly productive transfer window this time around.

Defensive depth

Everton have looked vulnerable defensively at times this season, so strengthening at the back should be a priority.

Norwich right-back Max Aarons has been linked with a move to Goodison Park having helped the Canaries to the Championship title and could be the ideal successor to an ageing Seamus Coleman, though he is unlikely to come cheap.

Juventus centre-back Merih Demiral is also believed to be a target. 

The Turkey international, 23, would add steel to Everton’s backline, although Yerry Mina and Ben Godfrey have impressed of late.

Extra creativity

Further forward, Everton may look to add creativity and guile, which — with the exception of Rodriguez — has been lacking.

Ex-Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho has been at the centre of speculation over a potential return to Merseyside and the Barcelona man would certainly be considered a coup for Ancelotti.

If he is willing to sign for his former club’s city rivals, the Brazilian could make Everton a far more formidable attacking force.

Ancelotti has hinted the Toffees need extra quality — and 28-year-old Coutinho would certainly fit the bill.

Speed and energy

Ancelotti spoke about Everton’s plans for the summer last week. 

He said: "We have weaknesses and we have quality, and I think that the speed and energy is really important in modern football, but not the most important part, of course.

“The last time [summer transfer window] we had to try and improve the energy in midfield, we signed players who put more energy in midfield.

“So [this time] we need to improve some positions on the pitch to try and play more attractive football."

Attacking options

More goals would certainly be an attractive proposition for supporters, who have seen their side rely heavily on Calvert-Lewin this season.

Everton are one of many teams being linked with Brentford’s Ivan Toney, the Championship’s top scorer with 31 goals to his name.

He has scored at a rate of 0.7 goals per 90 minutes, while also chipping in with a further 10 assists across the campaign.

Everton’s 46 goals in 34 games makes them the lowest scorers in the Premier League’s top half, so the arrival of a prolific striker to relieve the burden on Calvert-Lewin appears vital.

There are improvements to be made but the Toffees will not want a complete overhaul of their squad. 

This summer is about evolution rather than revolution and adding quality which takes the club to the next level.