Opinion

Forget Hayden Hackney, Everton could soon make a £10m signing which finally unlocks Tyler Dibling

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Everton have started the summer by trying to strike an agreement for Hayden Hackney.

Talks have taken place with Middlesbrough over a deal for the England U21 international, who would be an exciting addition having only recently won the 2025/26 Championship Player of the Year.

However, while not as exciting a move, Everton are also targeting a £10m deal for Aaron Wan-Bissaka after West Ham were relegated from the Premier League, according to the Telegraph.

Not only would the move give David Moyes a proper right-back who will allow Jake O’Brien to play in his natural position in the centre of defence, but it could also finally see Tyler Dibling begin to shine at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

How would you feel about Hayden Hackney becoming Everton’s first signing? 🤩

Why Aaron Wan-Bissaka can help Tyler Dibling flourish

The DR Congo international is arguably one of the best defenders on the planet when it comes to one-on-one defending against an opponent.

Jamie Carragher even called Wan-Bissaka the outright best in football at this task.

Back in March 2020, the man born in Bootle said: “Even when you actually get past him, look at this leg coming in from nowhere. I actually think that Wan-Bissaka is the best one-on-one defender for a full-back in the world. I don’t think anyone would be able to get the better of him one-v-one.

“Make Wan-Bissaka think. Not try and run at him. You won’t go past him.”

Having someone this effective on the right of defence, who doesn’t need as much help from the winger in front of him, would be a blessing for Dibling.

It would mean the England U21 international has less of a need to track back, and can put more focus on running at defenders with his superb dribbling skills – one of the many attacking talents which led Everton to spend £40m on his signature back in August.

Moyes suggested defending is a weakness for Dibling back in May when saying the Everton No.20 has “to do better in his work” and train harder.

Ultimately, while that may be true, the 20-year-old was not helped one bit last season by the lack of a proper right-back behind him when he did get onto the pitch.

How can Tyler Dibling actually turn things around at Everton? 🤷‍♂️

It's going to need some turnaround from the youngster 😫

David Moyes quote on Everton flop Tyler Dibling
Credit: Getty Images/Alex Livesey

Therefore, the potential signing of Wan-Bissaka could well be a significant moment for Dibling as he aims to become a star at Everton.