Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Gabby Agbonlahor has expressed his view that while a potential deal for Jack Harrison would be “great” for Everton, it should not be their main “priority” under Sean Dyche.
Agbonlahor, the former Aston Villa striker, urged Everton to allocate the majority, or “80%,” of their summer budget towards acquiring a striker. Football Insider recently revealed that Everton has targeted the signing of Leeds winger Harrison, who has a release clause of £16 million in his contract at Elland Road.
Despite Everton’s narrow escape from relegation in the 2022-23 season, it is not anticipated that they will have a substantial transfer budget to enhance their squad this summer. Harrison, who has accumulated 32 goals in 206 appearances for Leeds, recently signed a contract extension until June 2028.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider: “I really like him. Leeds were clever to make him sign a new deal and put that release clause in. The big thing for Everton is – I would go and get a striker. I can’t believe they’re looking at wingers first.
“Whatever money is available, whatever they spend, it’s got to be on a number nine. If that’s 80% of the budget, then so be it. They’ve got Gray, McNeil, Iwobi – players who can play on the wing. But they need a striker. If you go out and get one and there is money left, then Harrison is a great addition. It’s just not a priority.
“In the right team, Harrison could be very dangerous. But Everton have got to sort their striker situation out first.”