Everton Transfer Updates: Lampard eyes Chelsea duo, Cornet & Dennis latest

Frank Lampard’s close ties with Chelsea could afford Everton first refusal on any talent the West London club are looking to part ways with, subject to financial factors.

Two players that fit that mould are Ross Barkley and Billy Gilmour who could both leave Stamford Bridge in differing circumstances.

The latter ended speculation of a permanent move away after recently signing a contract extension until 2024, but a loan hasn’t been ruled out.

Gilmour spent 2021/22 with Norwich City who finished at the foot of the Premier League. He struggled for consistency on the whole but did see an improvement under Dean Smith following Daniel Farke’s eventual departure.

In respect of Barkley, the 28-year-old will leave Chelsea this summer as Thomas Tuchel looks to refresh his squad after a trophy-less season.

CBS journalist Ben Jacobs, via EFC Daily, provided updates on the two players in question within a joint report.

He stated, ‘there is substance to links between Everton and Billy Gilmour’ after the Scot was cut from Chelsea’s pre-season tour of USA.

"“Ross Barkley is available, and Frank Lampard believes he still has huge potential. Barkley is only 28 and hoping to find a club that plays to his strengths,” Jacobs added."

While negotiations don’t appear to have started in either case, I’d keep an eye on both as Lampard will no doubt be pushing for their acquisition.

Levi Colwill and Conor Gallagher were also listed as targets of Lampard’s by Jacobs, but deals for both appear unlikely with other teams in the offing for Colwill while Chelsea plan to retain Gallagher.