By Noel Whelan

20th Jan, 2023 | 1:31pm

Pundit 'wowed' by Moussa Dembele transfer reveal as 'big-money' Everton claim issued

Noel Whelan has warned Everton will struggle to “compete and survive” without spending “big money” this month as a potential move for Moussa Dembele hits the rocks.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Frank Lampard will feel helpless as relegation rivals like Nottingham Forest and Leeds United splash the cash on new arrivals.

Everton are yet to make a January signing despite abysmal recent form which leaves them 19th in the Premier League table.

Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (18 January) that Everton are expected to fail in their pursuit of Lyon striker Moussa Dembele.

The tight financial situation at Goodison Park means the club would struggle to sign Dembele on a permanent basis and would prefer a loan deal.

Everton have also missed out on early-window target Danny Ings, with 18th-place West Ham announcing his arrival on Friday (20 January).

The Toffees have operated on a sell-to-buy basis in recent seasons – with sales of Lucas Digne and Richarlison funding the signings of players like Amadou Onana and Vitaly Mykolenko.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “They’ve relied on loan signings and free transfers last season, as well.

“They’re a great club, but they’re down at the bottom of the league. They need to spend some big money.

“It’s so difficult for Frank, and it must be really disheartening.

“You’re seeing other clubs like West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Leeds United going out and spending big. Even Bournemouth have been in the market already.

“Lampard must be thinking ‘wow, what can I do?’

“It’s going to be very hard for them to compete and survive if he’s not given the right tools this month.”

In other news, pundit demands answers from Everton board as Lampard left “in limbo”.