Everton are still looking for a new right-back, with Djed Spence and Brooke Norton-Cuffy on their transfer radar.
The club have now played their first pre-season friendly against Dundee, and frustratingly, David Moyes put another square peg in a round hole.
After watching him for England vs Croatia, I’m convinced he’d be the perfect right-back signing this summer! 🔥
Merlin Rohl played at right-back, and although he did well in the 4-0 win, it was just what fans were hoping to see.
Supporters want a new face, and someone who is actually a natural and specialist for the position.
Spence has been heavily linked in recent weeks, but Brooke Norton-Cuffy could be a cheaper option – and comparing the two makes for interesting reading.
Brooke Norton-Cuffy is a viable alternative to Djed Spence for Everton
Spence’s valuation has now shot up following his exploits at the World Cup.
He was one of England’s best players, as he showcased his athleticism and versatility and, Tottenham Hotspur will surely be looking to sell for the highest price they possibly can.
It could well be that he is now out of Everton’s price range.
But at £17 million, Norton-Cuffy could be very shrewd alternative – because he did outperform Spence in several metrics last term.
As per Squawka, Norton-Cuffy grabbed one assist to Spence’s zero, and created 21 chances to Spence’s 10.
Just focusing on Everton’s right-back search, who should the club bring in this summer and why? 🤔
From Spence, to White, to Norton-Cuffy, there have been links to so many players so far…
Norton-Cuffy was the more accurate crosser, posting a percentage of 23%, versus 20% for Spence.
The Genoa man was also better at taking on his man, having a success rate of 58%. Spence had just 44%.
And defensively, Norton-Cuffy again got the better of Spence. His ground duel win percentage was 54%, with Spence’s at 48%.
Spence was better in the air, winning 47% of his duels to Norton-Cuffy’s 30%.
Spence did also have higher metrics for interceptions and clearances per 90, but Norton-Cuffy edged him out for blocks per 90.
Essentially, Norton-Cuffy did outperform Spence in quite a few areas last term, and does appear to be a very viable alternative.
Spence is likely to be too expensive now after his World Cup exploits.
But Norton-Cuffy has got to be worth Everton’s consideration, and the fact Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George are both at the club may help, since they’ve all been in the England U21 squad together.
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