Everton is reportedly close to securing a long-term loan deal for rising talent Antonio Cordero, but the terms of the agreement have raised concerns among fans and pundits alike. According to reports, the 20-year-old forward is set to join the Toffees on a season-long loan without an option to buy, a move that has prompted Premier League legend Alan Shearer to express his doubts about the club’s strategy.
Shearer described the deal as “short-term thinking,” highlighting the potential risks of signing a player without a future clause. “It’s a decent addition on paper, but what’s the point if you can’t keep him?” Shearer asked. “If he hits form, they’ve basically advertised him for someone else. That’s not smart planning.” This sentiment has been echoed by fans and analysts, who question the logic behind signing a player without a clear path to retaining him long-term.
Antonio Cordero is a highly touted young player who has been making waves in Spain’s youth and reserve competitions. His technical skill, pace, and ability to find space in the box have made him an attractive prospect for several clubs, including Everton. However, the structure of the agreement has raised eyebrows, with Cordero’s parent club reportedly refusing to include an option to buy.
For a club like Everton, which is currently undergoing a difficult rebuild, moves like this reflect a deeper problem. Without financial stability or European football to attract marquee players, Everton has increasingly turned to temporary solutions to plug critical holes in their squad. Shearer’s frustration likely stems from a pattern of similar deals that fail to provide long-term return. As Shearer noted, “Everton need players to build around, not to babysit someone else’s future star. That’s not how you rebuild a football club.”
The question remains whether Everton’s current strategy will yield the desired results or if the club will continue to struggle to establish a consistent and competitive squad. Cordero’s move to Goodison Park is expected to be confirmed early next week, and only time will tell if this loan deal will prove to be a shrewd move or a costly mistake.
