Everton fans dreaming of a blockbuster summer with Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Ben White all arriving at Goodison Park may need to come back down to earth. According to transfer insider Pete O'Rourke, the Toffees simply cannot afford to land all three targets, delivering a sobering reality check to David Moyes' ambitious plans for the 2026-27 season.

The financial hurdles mean Everton must prioritize, and right now, the most realistic path forward appears to be another loan deal for Grealish. Both the player and Manchester City are reportedly open to extending his stay at the Hill Dickinson Stadium after a successful first season on Merseyside. Grealish quickly became a fan favorite following his summer arrival, though a foot injury cut his campaign short in January. Despite that setback, his numbers speak volumes—eight goal contributions and an impressive 2.1 chances created per 90 minutes across 20 appearances explain exactly why Everton are so eager to keep him in royal blue.

Stones presents a very different equation. The 31-year-old is set to leave Manchester City as a free agent this summer after a decade of service at the Etihad, meaning no transfer fee is required. However, his injury record over the past two seasons raises serious concerns, and his reported £250,000-a-week wages would wreak havoc on Everton's wage structure. To make matters more complicated, a host of European clubs are circling, making the race for his signature intensely competitive.

As for White, he still has two years remaining on his Arsenal contract, and prying him away from the Emirates would require a substantial fee. While the defender has seen increased playing time recently due to Jurrien Timber's injury, Arsenal are in no mood to sell on the cheap. That makes a move to Merseyside look like a long shot, especially given Everton's financial constraints.

So, should Everton prioritize one of these targets? Absolutely—and it's about more than just balancing the books. The Toffees' attack has been their Achilles' heel all season, with Beto and Thierno Barry struggling to find consistency in front of goal. Grealish directly addresses that glaring weakness. Stones and White are undoubtedly quality players, but they operate in positions where Everton already have solid depth. In a summer where every pound counts, the choice is clear: Grealish should be the priority signing for Moyes and his staff.