Everton won their battle against relegation and now need to make sure they do not find themselves in a similar mess next season. Dean Jones provides GIVEMESPORT with a must-read guide to the Toffees' summer transfer window.
Where could Everton strengthen this summer?
They conceded 66 goals last season - that’s 13 more than Burnley, who were relegated. It’s clear that Lampard’s main job is to make this side more resolute and he aims to do that by signing defensive minded players. But he is also on the prowl for players with a certain personality. He could also look for players with a point to prove. January's midfield gamble did not pay off too well in Donny van de Beek and Dele Alli, but they might persist with it.
Who could The Toffees sign?
Lampard will undoubtedly lean on his Chelsea connections and Conor Gallagher, Armando Broja and Levi Colwill are already being linked - with Broja seen as the most realistic before the window had opened.
Defence is an area they are focusing on early and out-of-contract Burnley centre-back James Tarkowski is one they would love to get over the line. The 29-year-old now boasts 194 appearances in the Premier League.
Further forward there are big decisions to be made and much will depend on who ends up leaving.
The club are contemplating a new goalkeeper to come in, with Manchester City’s Gavin Bazunu in mind.
One dream signing for Everton this summer?
Ismaila Sarr. We know this squad is going to experience an overhaul but as part of that it is important to find players with Premier League experience, in order to get off to a good start next term.
£40m ace Sarr, 24, is one of the most exciting players that will be available in this summer market as he seeks a switch from relegated Watford.
Newcastle have also been declaring some interest yet the Toffees could get a good deal here if they can convince the player of their ambition, which they say will match their pedigree in this division.
He’s fast, dynamic, has good output and can play across the front line - he would be a great option if Richarlison leaves.
Transfermarkt value him at £24.3m.
Who's leaving Goodison Park?
This is the big question hanging over Goodison Park: how many of the star names will go? Richarlison, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jordan Pickford played crucial roles in keeping them in the top-flight yet all have also had their future cast into doubt at various stages of the past few weeks.
Richarlison would seem the most likely to go and his representatives have offers in the background that will be explored over the next few weeks.
Offers for Dele Alli, Allan and Andre Gomes will be welcomed while there are some clubs showing interest in Michael Keane.
Other players will leave when their contracts expire, including Jonjoe Kenny and Cenk Tosun. Fabian Delph’s situation is very uncertain.
Biggest challenge at Everton this summer?
Strategy. There has been a tendency to target high-profile signings or to throw money at problems yet this time around they might need a re-think as it just has not worked. Big conversations will be had over how to address problem areas but the big thing is for Lampard and the recruitment team to identify the right characters to help re-shape the team.