Three Ball Playing Defenders Who Everton Should Target
Things at Everton FC are really beginning to take shape under Ronald Koeman as the Dutch manager plans to take the Merseyside club into Europe this season. Koeman is doing everything in his power to further strengthen his side for the upcoming season by adding some quality players to the squad. The club has already roped in 23-year-old Jordan Pickford from Sunderland and Netherlands international Davy Klaassen from Ajax FC with a few more players inbound.
In order for Everton FC to have an actual chance of qualifying for Champions League, Ronald Koeman should look to further strengthen his backline. Despite signing Ashley Williams last season, Everton did not really see a significant improvement in defence. Koeman constantly rotated the backline between Ashley Williams, Mason Holgate and Phil Jagielka. The club is definitely short of a dynamic centre-back. Everton could certainly use a defender who can be just as good in the attack as well as defence. Here are three players who Everton can target.
Mamadou Sakho
The 27-year-old French defender might be a surprising name on the list but there’s no denying his effectiveness on the football pitch. He might a player of an arch rival’s club but his given his situation at the moment, a move to the other end of the Merseyside is possible. Sakho’s relationship with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has permanently collapsed and the club have put him up for sale.
Sakho’s fallout with the manager might be a nice opportunity for Everton to put in a bid for the French defender. The 27-year-old former PSG captain had put in several impressive performances for Liverpool in the past and is known for his presence on the pitch. He also has a tendency to drive forward with the ball and is quite effective in set piece situations.
Craig Dawson
The 6ft 2in Englishman is a vastly experienced defender, having spent six seasons in the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion. Having joined the Baggies in 2010, Dawson slowly made into the first team and has now become one the key players in the side.
The 27-year-old could fit into any team in the League thanks to his defensive prowess. Working under Tony Pulis has further improved the centre-back, making him one of the best defenders in the League. He also has an eye for goal having scored 4 last season. Craig Dawson could bring in experience and defensive resilience to the Everton side.
Calum Chambers
After a successful loan stint at Middlesbrough last season, Calum Chambers will be hoping for regular first team football under Arsene Wenger this season. But the return of Per Mertesacker and the solidifying partnership of Koscielny and Mustafi could see him warm the bench for the club.
The 22-year-old could be open to another loan spell or a permanent switch to Everton, where first team football is a possibility, with Phil Jagielka losing his touch. Chambers could be a perfect replacement for the 34-year-old England international.