We’re taking a look at five Everton striker targets that could make all the difference if the Toffees are able to sign them in January.
With Everton improving under David Moyes, it seems a top-quality striker is one piece of the puzzle that’s yet to be solved.
The Merseyside outfit have looked good in many of their games so far, but lacked the cutting edge of many rivals.
Jack Grealish’s arrival has galvanised their attack. But for every gilt-edged chance he fashions, it feels like Everton’s strikers are as likely to scuff it wide or blast it over as they are to find the back of the net.
Everton’s Monday Night Football performance this week, where they drew 1-1 with Sunderland at the Stadium of light, highlighted how poorly their forwards are shooting.
Everton’s Striker Problems Costing Them Points
Current options Beto and Thierno Barry simply aren’t delivering at present.
The pair have just two goals between them in all competition, both courtesy of Beto.
It’s beyond clear that a proven centre forward is something Everton are desperate for.
They have scored just 10 league goals this season, with an xG (expected goals) tally of more than 13.
This shows that not only are their forwards not getting into good positions, they are missing the chances they do get.
The all-round improvement under Moyes has been noticeable.
But for Everton to kick on and re-establish themselves as a top-half team with European aspirations, a striker is vital in January.
Below, we have picked out five options that could help fire the Toffees back into Europe.
Everton Striker Targets For January Window
Ivan Toney – Al-Ahli
First up, Ivan Toney has been heavily linked with a return to the Premier League.
Still only 29, the former Brentford man is in the peak of his career.
With 72 goals in 141 games for the Bees, Toney is absolutely proven in the Premier League.
His physicality and hold-up play means he can fill the same role as Beto and Barry.
But unlike Everton’s current offering, Toney is a lethal finisher that is pretty much guaranteed to score goals.
In terms of probability, it all hinges on how much he wants to return to England.
Currently playing in Saudi Arabia, Toney completed his Saudi Pro League move last summer.
As a result, his wage demands are likely to be very high.
But with the World Cup around the corner, he may be keen to put himself in the shop window for England selection at a Premier League club.
Joshua Zirkzee – Manchester United
Next up on our list of Everton striker targets is a man with plenty to prove.
Joshua Zirkzee was highly-regarded ahead of his move to Manchester United.
The Dutch international had impressed during spells at Anderlecht and Bologna.
But he has struggled at Old Trafford, scoring just seven times in 54 total appearances.
The pressure of playing for Manchester United has clearly affected him.
Still only 24, a move away to another Premier League team could be exactly what he needs to get his career back on track.
Another tall forward that fits Moyes’ ‘target-man’ profile for a striker, Zrikzee could be a great fit.
United are probably more likely to sanction a loan in January, but if Everton can negotiate an option to buy him next summer, it could be a great move for all parties.
Vangelis Pavlidis – Benfica
Greek international Vangelis Pavlidis is currently leading the scoring charts in Portugal.
The Benfica bagsman netted 30 times in all competitions last season, and has eight in the league already this term.
With 52 international caps, the 26-year-old is vastly experienced.
Pavlidis em 2025:
– 59 jogos
– 37 golos
– 13 assistências50 G/A em 59 Jogos. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/B0SvwAHULF
— Goncalodias17 (@goncalo_diass17) October 25, 2025
Pavlidis has drawn comparisons to Uruguayan legend Edinson Cavani in terms of playing style, and fits a slightly diferent profile to others in this list.
More of a poacher, he is less pacey than some options.
But the Greek is a proven goalscorer wherever he’s played, and would be a superb signing for Everton.
Taty Castellanos – Lazio
Lazio’s Taty Castellanos is another who blends goals with excellent link-up play.
It has been reported by several sources that Everton are considering a £30m move for the Argentinian in January.
With five goals and assists this season in six Serie A games, Castellanos is a more creative option than others.
But his movement and versatility could be a big help for Everton in the final third, taking some of the pressure off of Jack Grealish.
Hamza Igamane – LOSC Lille
And last but not least on our list of Everton striker targets, we have Hamza Igamane.
Having been heavily linked to Everton over the summer, former Rangers man Igamane moved to Lille.
The Moroccan international has been excellent for the Ligue 1 side, scoring seven times in 12 games.
Having just moved clubs, he is not a realistic option for January. But at 23, Igamane represents a long-term target that Everton should keep an eye on, and perhaps go back in for in future.
