With less than a week remaining of the current transfer window, Everton appear to have stepped up their search for defensive reinforcements.
Everton short at the back
The Toffees have already secured the services of James Rodriguez, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Allan in the current window – all of whom have improved Everton a great deal.
In fact, Carlo Ancelotti’s men are one of just a trio of teams to have won their opening three league outings this term.
Despite their solid start and great signings, Everton do still quite clearly need to strengthen at the back.
This is not to say that the Toffees current crop of central defenders are not up to scratch, but rather that they just do not have enough.
Currently, with Mason Holgate sidelined, Everton have just Michael Keane and Yerry Mina available as fit, first-team central defenders.
Lucas Digne has filled in at left centre-back on occasion this term. But Ancelotti would no doubt rather deploy the Frenchman at left-back instead.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 18: Mason Holgate of Everton acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between West Ham United and Everton FC at London Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images)
Everton in for Godfrey
Everton are seemingly well aware of their need to add some reinforcements at centre-back in the current window.
The Merseysiders were linked with Chelsea’s Fikayo Tomori earlier this month, though those links appear to have died down recently.
The reason for this may be because Everton have turned their attentions to another player.
Said player appears to be Norwich City centre-back, Ben Godfrey.
The 22-year-old has been a key figure for the Canaries over the last three campaigns.
But after Norwich were relegated from the Premier League last term, it looks as though Godfrey could be set to depart the club.
According to Sky Sports News, Everton have bid £26m for the stopper, with £6m of that believed to be made up of add-ons.
The report from SSN does not mention if Norwich have rejected the bid for Godfrey, who has just under three years left on his current contract.
Allan & Richarlison injured
On a less positive note, Everton were dealt a double injury blow on Wednesday.
Ancelotti’s men faced off with West Ham in the 4th round of the League Cup, emerging with a 4-1 victory.
During the clash with the Hammers though, both Richarlison and Allan had to be withdrawn due to injury:
69′ Our third change as Allan can’t continue. Doucouré now on. Let’s hope these injuries aren’t serious, Blues! 🤞
2-1 #CarabaoCup
— Everton (@Everton) September 30, 2020
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