Everton are considering an internal answer to their shortage of striker options, with David Moyes reportedly looking at Carlos Alcaraz as a potential solution after the club failed to bring in another centre-forward before the transfer deadline.
According to Sebastien Vidal on X, Moyes intends to experiment with Alcaraz in a striker role, with the 23-year-old set to be given an opportunity up front during a behind-closed-doors friendly against Blackburn Rovers.
Everton searching for an internal solution
Following the breakdown of Everton’s late move for Folarin Balogun from AS Monaco, Thierno Barry remains the club’s only recognised number nine. Barry has enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026/27 campaign, but Moyes needs additional options to lead the attack, particularly given the demands of a long season and the potential impact of injuries and fatigue.
Moyes has already tried Brennan Johnson in a more central position, including in Everton’s Carabao Cup win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Johnson is not viewed as a natural centre-forward, leaving the manager with relatively few alternatives.
As a result, Moyes appears ready to explore another option within his squad, this time by moving an attacking midfielder into a more advanced role.
Alcaraz could offer another attacking option
Alcaraz has primarily featured in midfield and attacking positions, but his technical qualities and versatility could make him a useful alternative through the middle. The friendly against Blackburn offers Moyes a low-pressure opportunity to assess how the Argentine handles the responsibilities of playing as a striker.
The experiment could also reveal whether Alcaraz is capable of providing genuine competition for Barry rather than simply serving as an emergency replacement. Everton had identified Balogun as a potential answer to their striker shortage, but the deadline-day deal ultimately fell through because of complications surrounding the player’s medical.
With no recognised striker added to the squad, Moyes has little choice but to explore alternative solutions. Barry is still expected to lead the line, but depending on a single natural number nine for an entire campaign carries clear risks.
Alcaraz’s potential switch to striker will therefore be an interesting development to follow. If he adapts successfully, Moyes would gain another attacking option and greater tactical flexibility. The Blackburn friendly should provide an early indication of whether the 23-year-old can make the adjustment and operate effectively as a central striker.