Seamus Coleman’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season so Everton are in the market for a long-term replacement.
The 37-year-old defender has served Everton brilliantly over the last 16 years, but now it is up to David Moyes and The Friedkin Group to find a fitting replacement.
Jake O’Brien and James Garner have both filled in at right-back at times this season, so it is an area that Everton will be desperate to address in 2026.
What position do Everton need to strengthen in most, right-back or striker?
Unfortunately, Coleman suffered a hamstring injury in the 1-0 win over Manchester United that has left Everton’s defensive options stretched.
With the January transfer window just around the corner, Everton have been linked with an exciting right-back target.
Everton interested in Zakaria El Ouahdi
According to Sky Sports, Everton have enquired about KRC Genk defender Zakaria El Ouahdi.
The report claims the 23-year-old defender is set to be available for a fee of around €12m (£11m) in 2026.
Which right-back would you like to see Everton sign in January? 🤑
“I want my full-backs to create more goals.
“Let’s be fair, at most clubs you need your number nines to be scoring. We’re not hiding away from that fact, but it should not take away from us needing our number fives to score from corner kicks, or assists coming from the full-backs.”
David Moyes has demanded more from his full-backs this season
Premier League rivals Crystal Palace are also showing interest and are said to be leading the race, but Everton believe that Zakaria is a suitable long-term replacement for Coleman.
Genk are unlikely to stand in his way and Zakaria is reportedly “excited” about the prospect of joining a Premier League side, according to Caught Offside.
What is Zakaria El Ouahdi’s style of play?
Zakaria is not exactly a household name for Everton fans to recognise, but there is plenty to like about his performances at Genk.
This season, the Morocco defender has scored four goals in 12 league matches while playing predominantly at right-back.
According to WhoScored, there are three strengths within Zakaria’s style of play – his passing, blocking, and ability to hold onto possession.
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His tackling and concentration are listed as weaknesses in his game.
At 23 years old, Zakaria has a bright future ahead, and Everton once struck a bargain deal to bring Coleman to Merseyside, and now Zakaria could follow in his footsteps.
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