Kieran Maguire issues ‘£50m’ claim as Everton eye two ‘pivotal’ behind-the-scenes hires
Everton could routinely save £50million in terms of player recruitment if they are able to blood more top-quality youngsters.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Toffees’ plans to revamp their youth setup.
As reported by iNews last Friday (6 May), Everton are looking to appoint a new academy director and under-23 coach.
It is understood that the club’s decision-makers are keen to move in a more financially sustainable direction and see youth development as the way forward.
Academy graduate Anthony Gordon, 21, has been a leading light for relegation-threatened Everton this term.
And Maguire emphasised the role the youth production line can play in both generating and saving cash.
“We have seen this year, Anthony Gordon has probably been their standout player,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“It’s pivotal. If the worst happens and they are relegated, you can sell players like that for £40m or £50m and that can soften the blow.
“There is also this phrase in finance called ‘opportunity cost’. This means how much money is saved compared to the next best option, the next best option being going out and buying a player.
“Also, players who come through the academy tend to be on a bit of a discount in terms of wages because they have legacy contracts. So, there are cost savings and there are cash generative opportunities with academy players.”
Gordon has registered four goals and three assists in 37 appearances this term.
Everton have posted combined losses of over £370m in the last three years.
In other news, pundit suggests Ben Godfrey to lead Everton exodus after latest.