‘Everton senior man could follow Kevin Thelwell to Rangers – I’m hearing…’
Everton’s backroom staff rebuild is growing in size after another senior man chose to leave the club following The Friedkin Group’s (TFG) takeover.
The Athletic reported (29 April) that head of recruitment Dan Purdy is set to become the “latest high-profile figure to leave”.
Kevin Thelwell has already been confirmed as the new sporting director at Rangers after TFG declined to renew his contract at Everton.
The Toffees and their new US owners are yet to announce how the recruitment department will change in the wake of the key exits.
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 – claimed he is “hearing” Purdy could follow Thelwell to Rangers for the 2025-26 campaign.
Purdy departure is a ‘disappointment’ at Everton, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness insisted Purdy’s departure is a “disappointment” for Everton.
He joined as a match analyst in 2014 and progressed to chief scout before being named head of recruitment in 2022.
Wyness told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “This is a bit of a disappointment, to be honest.
“Purdy was one of those they wanted to keep into the new structure. It would’ve been good continuity.
“If you look at the work he did with Kevin Thelwell, bringing in players like Onana, Garner, Ndiaye – Alcaraz as well.
“They are good players at an important time with the ownership problems we had.
“I think Everton wanted to keep him. He had been there for nine or 10 years.
“He may be joining Thelwell at Rangers – that’s what I’m hearing the rumour of.
“That would be a blow for Everton.”
Major Jack Harrison update
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (6 May) that Jack Harrison is not likely to return to Leeds United for the 2025-26 campaign despite their promotion.
| Appearances (Starts) | 70 (53) |
| Minutes Played | 4711 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 |
Everton and Moyes are yet to decide whether to pursue a permanent move for the winger.
The 28-year-old has spent two seasons on loan with the Toffees following Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League in 2023.
For more Everton and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.