Everton’s ambitious £40m move for US international Folarin Balogun collapsed late on deadline day, leaving manager David Moyes with only one striker for the first half of the season.

The deal had been agreed, but complications arose during Balogun's medical examination, putting the transfer in jeopardy. This situation followed the departures of Beto to Fiorentina and Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City.

Everton attempted to secure additional forwards:

• Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United
• Tammy Abraham from Aston Villa

However, both proposed loan deals were rejected. After renegotiating the terms with Monaco, Everton submitted a deal sheet to finalize Balogun's transfer. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old opted out at the last minute, leaving Thierno Barry as the club’s sole recognized striker. This debacle capped a tumultuous end to the transfer window for the club’s management, already under scrutiny for trying to sell Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest.

Everton also faced setbacks in their pursuit of right-back Kenny Tete from Fulham. Although a £9m deal was in place, it fell through due to Fulham's inability to find a suitable replacement. Ultimately, Everton secured Ainsley Maitland-Niles, a former Arsenal player, from Lyon for around £4.2m on a three-year contract.

Funds were generated through various player sales, including Ndiaye for £60m plus £5m in add-ons and Beto for £15.5m.

In other news, Jack Grealish returns to Everton on loan from Manchester City. The 30-year-old expressed excitement about rejoining the club, stating, "I’m so happy... I feel loved... I’ve been watching all the Everton games in pre-season and since the season started. Now I feel ready to go." He could make his second debut against Manchester United this Sunday.