‘Everton may have ulterior motive behind Goodison Park plan’
Everton played their last Premier League fixture at Goodison Park on Sunday (18 May) but have announced the famous stadium will live on.
The Toffees have cancelled demolition and confirmed the club’s women’s side will play at the 39,572-seat ground as part of a new era.
Everton owners The Friedkin Group moved quickly to set the plans in action, conducting a feasibility study soon after taking charge on Merseyside.
The club’s women’s side currently play at Walton Hall Park – which has a capacity of 2,200 but only 500 seats.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – has suggested Everton may have an ulterior motive behind keeping Goodison Park alive.
Everton could now follow Chelsea, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness claimed folding Goodison Park into the women’s side will boost its value.
Chelsea sold their women’s team to a sister company last year (2024) – in a move which helped them avoid breaching the Premier League‘s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Clubs including Aston Villa are widely reported to be exploring a similar move to ease financial concerns.
Wyness claimed Everton may now be planning a similar move.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “Perhaps people will call me cynical, but I think this is all related to what Chelsea have done with the women’s team.
“It’s a clever move from the Friedkins because the valuation of the women’s team, if it is sold as a package, is a lot higher now with Goodison in the mix.
“If we’re saying Chelsea value their side at £200million, then the Everton side with the property will get a very healthy valuation.
“It may have been a smart move. I don’t think it’s all about being great for the women’s side of the club.”
Calvert-Lewin to hold out before making Everton decision
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on Thursday (22 May) that Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to take his time over a final decision on remaining at Everton.
Calvert-Lewin’s current deal is set to expire on 30 June, allowing him to move elsewhere on a free transfer.
It is believed the 28-year-old has not made a final decision on a potential move – and will evaluate all options before doing so.
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