Should Romelu Lukaku, Ross Barkley and/or John Stones Leave Everton This Summer?

Everton might employ England’s best young spine.

Minus their search for a permanent goalkeeper once Tim Howard returns to America, the Toffees boast Romelu Lukaku, 22, in attack; Ross Barkley, 22, in midfield; and John Stones, 21, in defence.

Still evolving as footballers, going through ups and downs, the burgeoning trio should be foundational for a trophy-winning Premier League side. Everton have money to spend—especially after billionaire businessman Farhad Moshir bought a 49.9 percent stake in the club, via the Guardian’s Andy Hunter—and possess decent standing in English football, but they are struggling to create an environment for trophies.

In many ways, Goodison Park has become a launching pad. A club where good, not great, footballers continue their careers and where promising young talents are given opportunities to develop. Often compared with Tottenham Hotspur in recent years, Spurs have reached UEFA Champions League (and possibly title-winning) levels this year, while Everton languish.

Disappointing seasons from Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United left gaps in the Premier League’s presumed hierarchy this season. Tottenham, Leicester City and West Ham United have walked through the doors provided, but Merseyside’s blue half are 11th in the table, standing atop the bottom half.

Given the world-class potential their three young stars hold, the upcoming summer transfer window seems a massive moment in Everton’s future.

Leaving for Manchester United after the 2012/13 season, David Moyes had posted seven consecutive years in the top eight. Once the Scottish manager left, Roberto Martinez came in and immediately improved upon what had been …

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