Report: Everton offered chance to sign £7m ‘brilliant footballer’ admired by Jordan Pickford
Everton aim to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window following a disappointing start to the season.
Significant changes have unfolded on Merseyside in recent weeks, offering Everton fans hope for a fresh start.
The Friedkin Group is focused on strengthening the squad, prioritizing the addition of a forward and a midfielder.
However, another position under scrutiny is full-back, where reinforcements could improve the team’s performance.
Vitaliy Mykolenko, the current left-back, has faced criticism this season due to inconsistent performances, exacerbated by a lack of competition for his spot.
To address this issue, Everton are reportedly considering Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
With limited depth at full-back, Everton are keen to introduce competition for the left-back position.
The right-back options also require attention, as the two regular starters are aging and may not meet long-term needs.
According to TeamTalk, Everton are interested in signing Walker-Peters, who is likely to leave Southampton.
However, a January transfer remains uncertain, as Southampton values the player at £7 million.
Everton reportedly consider this price too steep for someone nearing the end of his contract. Despite this, Walker-Peters is eager to continue playing in the Premier League.
Surprisingly, Everton are also in talks to extend Mykolenko’s contract despite his underwhelming form this season, which has left fans uncertain about his ability to improve as the campaign progresses.
Notably, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has already had the opportunity to play alongside Walker-Peters at the international level.
Pickford was in goal when Walker-Peters made his England debut nearly three years ago.
Reflecting on that performance, Pickford told BBC Radio 5 Live, “We’ve all had to step up for our debuts, and I thought the lads were outstanding,” referring to Walker-Peters’ solid display.
Southampton manager Russell Martin has previously praised Walker-Peters, describing him as a “beautiful footballer” during an interview with BBC Sport.
Despite this admiration, the Saints appear resigned to losing the talented full-back.
Pickford, who recently criticized Everton’s defensive efforts following a loss to Bournemouth, would likely welcome the addition of Walker-Peters.
Strengthening the full-back positions could bring much-needed competition and reliability to Everton’s backline, offering fans hope for an improved second half of the season.
