There is no doubt whatsoever that Everton need a new right-back.
David Moyes has been using Jake O’Brien – a central defender by trade – in that position so far this season amid doubts over Nathan Patterson and injury problems for Seamus Coleman.
Everton are on the lookout for a new face in this department, as Ed Aarons of the Guardian claims that the Toffees want to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi from Genk.
However, Crystal Palace may now have the last laugh.
Crystal Palace making ‘progress’ in pursuit of Everton target Zakaria El Ouahdi
The reliable journalist now claims that Everton are interested in a £12m deal for the Morocco international, but Crystal Palace are the ones currently advancing in talks with Genk.
Oliver Glasner has been forced to use the 34-year-old Nathaniel Clyne as a right wing-back while Daniel Munoz recovers from a knee injury.
Could Nathan Patterson have offered Everton more from right-back than Jake O’Brien? 🤔
Interestingly, Genk actually promoted El Ouahdi as a replacement for the Colombia international after Crystal Palace sealed a £6.8m agreement for his signature back in January 2024, but could now lose the 24-year-old to the same club.
The Moroccan is an attack-minded defender who can boast four goals and one assist in 14 Jupiler Pro League appearances so far this season, so whoever secures his signature would be landing an exciting player.
Everton have alternatives if Crystal Palace win race to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi
If the south Londoners do beat Everton to El Ouahdi, there are other options out there for Moyes.
For one, Everton have been offered Vanderson as the South American’s representatives aim to find him a way out of Monaco. The man with seven caps for Brazil is thought to be keen on joining the Toffees.
Is there a better-suited right-back currently out there for Everton? 🤩
He could give Everton exactly what they need…
Everton are also monitoring Vitinho of Botafogo – another Brazil international – as an option to ease the workload on O’Brien and provide a natural option for that position.
It would be a shame to see El Ouahdi move to Selhurst Park, but it is certainly not the be all and end all for Moyes with alternatives to pursue.
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