Everton Offered Anthony Martial as Free Agent Striker Search Intensifies

Everton have been presented with a surprise market opportunity after being offered the chance to sign Anthony Martial, according to reports. The former Manchester United forward is available as a free agent, and the Toffees are weighing up a move as they look to bolster their attacking options.

Context and Background

Martial, who spent nine seasons at Old Trafford after arriving from Monaco in 2015, departed Manchester United at the end of his contract in the summer. The Frenchman's career at United was a mix of brilliance and inconsistency, with his best campaign coming in 2019-20 when he scored 23 goals across all competitions. However, injuries and loss of form limited him to just 16 appearances last season, and the club opted not to extend his stay.

Everton's interest in Martial comes as part of a broader search for a centre-forward. The Merseyside club have been active in the transfer market but have yet to secure a proven goalscorer. Reports suggest they made a late deadline-day move for Tammy Abraham, but that deal did not materialise. Now, with Martial available on a free transfer, Everton could secure a high-profile player without paying a fee, though his wage demands would be significant.

Martial's versatility is a key attribute. Primarily a striker, he can also operate on the left wing or as a second striker. His pace and dribbling ability have troubled Premier League defences, but his output has waned in recent seasons. Since the start of the 2021-22 campaign, he has scored just 11 league goals, a stark contrast to his earlier form.

Impact and Analysis

If Everton sign Martial, it would provide manager Sean Dyche with a different attacking dimension. Dyche typically favours a direct style, with physical strikers who can hold the ball up and bring others into play. Martial is not that type of player; he thrives on running in behind and combining with creative midfielders. This could force Dyche to adapt his approach, potentially using Martial in a front two or on the flanks.

From a statistical perspective, Martial's underlying numbers have declined. Last season, he averaged 1.4 shots per 90 minutes in the Premier League, down from 2.8 in his peak years. His expected goals (xG) per 90 also dropped to 0.32, indicating fewer high-quality chances. However, at 28, he still has time to rediscover his best form, especially if he stays fit.

The financial implications are crucial. As a free agent, Martial would command a substantial signing-on fee and wages likely in excess of £100,000 per week. Everton have been mindful of Financial Fair Play regulations, having faced deductions last season, so they would need to structure any deal carefully. Yet, avoiding a transfer fee could free up funds for wages, making the move more palatable.

For Fantasy Premier League managers, Martial's potential arrival at Everton is intriguing. He used to be a popular FPL asset, with his ownership peaking at over 20% during his explosive 2019-20 season. However, his price would likely be set conservatively, around £6.5m-£7.5m, given his recent lack of game time. If he signs, he could offer value, especially in the early weeks, but his minutes would need monitoring as Dyche may gradually integrate him.

  • Martial has scored 63 Premier League goals in 209 appearances for Manchester United.
  • He has not hit double figures in the league since 2020-21, when he scored 7 goals in 23 games.
  • Everton scored only 40 league goals last season, the fourth-lowest tally in the division.

What's Next

Everton's decision on Martial will likely depend on their wage budget and whether they can move on some current squad members. The club have been linked with other striker targets, but Martial's availability as a free agent makes him an attractive option. With the transfer window closed, signing a free agent is one of the few ways to strengthen until January. Everton's next few matches could shape their urgency, as they face tricky fixtures against Brentford and Arsenal. If they fail to score, expect the pressure to intensify on the recruitment team to get a deal over the line.

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