Report suggests reason why Everton did not pursue Joe Gelhardt deal

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The reason why Everton have pulled out of the race to sign Leeds United target Joe Gelhardt has been reported by the Liverpool ECHO. 

The Toffees have long been linked with a move for the Wigan Athletic youngster, who has been likened to Everton hometown hero Wayne Rooney. 

However, it looks increasingly likely that the youngster will be making a £1 million move to Elland Road this summer, with Leeds seemingly in advanced talks over a deal. 

The ECHO is reporting that despite Everton having a long-standing interest in the player, they felt that adding him to the under-23 set-up, where he would likely play next season, would be an unnecessary use of resources. 

This is despite him being available at a cut-price fee due to Wigan’s financial crisis. Everton were previously quoted £3 million to sign the England youth star.

Everton simply feel that they need to use the bulk of their transfer funds this season on strengthening the first-team and that spending £1 million on Gelhardt would not be the best use of limited transfer funds during the current financial climate. 

The Toffees are therefore seemingly willing to pass on a player who has been a long-term target for the club. Hopefully, it is not a decision that comes back to haunt them.