Everton want to sign ‘incredible’ player who Pep Guardiola said was ‘so strong’ two years ago

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Everton are facing a defensive overhaul following the arrival of Jake O’Brien.

Ben Godfrey has already earned himself a surprise move to Italy, while Michael Keane and Mason Holgate could still be sent packing.

Jarrad Branthwaite’s future remains in doubt as Manchester United continue to monitor him, however Everton are eager to keep hold of the centre-back.

The Toffees could still look to bring in another defender if their options decrease even further, but are ready to cool their spending after splashing out over £40 million so far this summer.

Everton could now look to the free-agent market and are reportedly considering a shock swoop for a former rival.

• READ MORE: Kevin Thelwell ‘actively looking’ to create Everton funds by selling three first-team players

Everton ready to swoop in for Premier League winner

According to CaughtOffside, Everton have joined the race to sign former Liverpool defender Joel Matip.

The 32-year-old was released by the Reds at the end of the season after his career became ridden with injuries.

Matip was a fan favourite at Liverpool though, making over 200 appearances as he helped them win six trophies.

The Cameroonian made a significant contribution to their success and was regularly applauded, with Pep Guardiola previously impressed by his performance against Man City.

In 2022, the Spaniard said: “(Haaland) scored a great goal today, helped us a lot, fought against Matip and Gomez, who are so strong and fast as well, so that’s why it is a next step.”

Matip is now on the search for a new club and could well return to Merseyside, however Everton face competition from both Fulham and Bayer Leverkusen.

Would Joel Matip be a good signing for the Toffees?

On his day, Matip was definitely one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League.

However, the veteran has struggled with injuries in recent seasons and has most recently spent over 200 days on the sidelines with a cruciate ligament tear – failing to feature since December.

Spotrac have also claimed that Matip was earning around £100,000-per-week at Anfield – less than only two players at Goodison Park.

The 32-year-old is likely still a very good defender, but his injury record and whopping wages should surely put Everton off.

Not to mention his loyalties to Liverpool, which could cause more problems than it would be worth.

His time with the Reds will surely put him off anyway though, while he could be tempted by a return to Germany with the defending Bundesliga champions.