Mason Holgate could be on his way out of Everton to join Southampton.
The Daily Mail have reported that the Saints are in talks over a move for Holgate, with the Toffees eager to offload the defender this summer.
Holgate has been at Goodison Park since joining from Barnsley in 2015, however he only managed eight appearances in the Premier League last season.
Since Jarrad Branthwaite is set to be given a chance in Everton’s first team after his successful loan spell at PSV, Holgate will now leave the club and has already attracted interest from Sheffield United.
The 26-year-old could now be set to join Southampton as they look to earn immediate promotion back to the top flight this season.
Tino Livramento and Kyle Walker-Peters have both been linked with a move away from the south coast, meaning Holgate could potentially be seen as a replacement at full-back if he leaves Merseyside.
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Holgate has endured a fall from grace during his time with Everton, having previously been tipped for big things only a few years ago.
Following the Toffees’ 2-0 win over Liverpool back in February 2021, Peter Crouch spoke very highly of the defender.
Writing for the Daily Mail, the former striker said: “Mason Holgate was brilliant. He needs to be mentioned; he’s different class and is going to be a top player.”
It’s the right time for Everton and Mason Holgate to part ways
Mason Holgate has been a loyal servant to Everton over the last eight years, however it is definitely time to move him on.
The former England U-21 international is far from the level the Toffees require of their backline if they are to build on last season, while his exit would still allow him plenty of years to enjoy his football elsewhere.
Holgate was bought for only £2 million back in 2015, so Sean Dyche’s side would expect to make a decent profit on him if Southampton snap him up.
A reasonable fee would go along way for Everton to begin to rebuild their squad, as they patiently wait for the funds to do so this summer.