Everton chasing ‘fantastic’ Premier League defender with Jose Mourinho’s stamp of approval

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Everton are in the market to land themselves a new defender when the transfer window opens.

Departures and injuries will force David Moyes’ arm when it comes to the need for a new centre-back in the summer.

Everton are going to lose Michael Keane at the end of the season, with his contract coming to an end.

And the Toffees are now experiencing their options being stretched following James Tarkowski’s injury sustained against Manchester City.

Everton fans will not be overly excited to see Keane potentially replace their captain, but the options are extremely limited.

Moyes is keen to sign a new defender when the window does open and there may already be one Premier League player they have on their radar.

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Everton eyeing move for Manchester United’s Victor Lindelof

Ahead of the summer, Manchester United are showing interest in Jarrad Branthwaite, which Everton will be keen to shut down.

But it seems as if the Toffees could now be looking to take one of United’s defenders off them.

According to Caught Offside, Everton are one of many Premier League sides who are showing a real interest in Victor Lindelof.

The Sweden international’s time at Old Trafford appears to be over as he is not in the plans of Ruben Amorim.

But he is going to have his selection of sides to potentially join this summer, with the following clubs credited with an interest:

• Fulham
• West Ham
• Wolves 
• Juventus
• Inter Milan
• Benfica

Lindelof will be a free agent in the summer as United show no indication of wanting to keep him around at Old Trafford.

The Friedkins are ready to finance Everton’s summer, but the addition of free signings to bolster the squad depth could prove a really smart move.

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Everton may struggle to convince Lindelof

There could be some real positives about a potential move to Merseyside for the Swede, if he is keen to remain in England.

Moving to Everton would allow him to remain in his current home, which would certainly appeal to his family.

Jose Mourinho hailed the centre-back during their time together at Old Trafford.

“He was a brave lad, but he probably punished himself. I don’t know how long he will be out, but he is a fantastic example,” Mourinho said after a game back in 2018.

However, Lindelof is struggling for game time at Manchester United and moving to Everton would not guarantee that.

Even with Tarkowski injured, Jake O’Brien has been mightily impressive this season and is a clear replacement for Moyes to select.

A big question would need to be asked as to whether Lindelof would be willing to potentially wait his turn at Bramley-Moore Dock.