Everton’s decision to sell Tom Cannon to Leicester City for £7.5 million in 2023 may have been a premature move, considering the young striker’s impressive form in the Championship. Cannon’s numbers since leaving Everton are nothing short of remarkable, with 8 goals in 21 appearances for Preston North End in the 2023/24 season and 11 goals in 25 fixtures for Stoke City in the 2024/25 campaign. After impressing in the Championship, Cannon was sold to Sheffield United for around £10 million, potentially netting Everton a significant profit due to a sell-on clause.
The circumstances surrounding the sale of Cannon are also worth noting. Everton’s financial struggles played a significant role in the decision to sell the young striker, with the club facing challenges in meeting Financial Fair Play regulations. The sale of Cannon, along with other players, was reportedly a last-minute move to address these concerns.
In contrast, Everton’s current strikers have had mixed results. Beto, signed from Udinese for £25.75 million, has found his form under David Moyes, scoring 10 goals in 24 appearances this season. However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin has struggled to replicate his earlier success, with only two goals this season. As Cannon continues to excel in the Championship, Everton might regret selling him, especially if their current strikers fail to consistently deliver. The club’s track record on player departures has been mixed, with some players thriving elsewhere while Everton struggles to find consistency.
The sell-on clause in Cannon’s transfer agreement could see Everton receive a significant payout, potentially £500,000 or £625,000, depending on the terms of the deal. This boost could help improve their financial position in the 2024/25 football financial year. However, the question remains: could Everton have done things differently? Should they have held onto Cannon, despite his injury concerns, and given him a chance to prove himself in the Premier League?
Only time will tell if Everton’s decision to sell Cannon was a wise one. For now, the club will be keeping a close eye on the young striker’s progress, hoping that their current strikers can deliver the goals needed to secure a successful season. As the transfer window continues to shape the fate of clubs and players alike, one thing is certain: the world of football is full of what-ifs, and Everton’s decision to sell Tom Cannon may be one that haunts them for years to come.
