Vitalii Mykolenko signed a new contract at Everton recently, and there is now word about whether the club could move for a new left-back.
An extension for Mykolenko had long been anticipated, with the Ukraine international having been a trusted player for David Moyes.
Mykolenko has pretty much played every game since Moyes took over last year.
If you were Angus Kinnear who would you be going all out for this summer? 💰
While he has not convinced most fans, the manager clearly believes in him to hold down the left-back position for a longer period.
Despite this news, Everton could still sign a left-back this summer, with journalist Joe Thomas sharing insight as to how likely that is.
The likelihood of signing a left-back after Mykolenko new contract
Fans are expecting to see the club having a busy summer transfer window.
For weeks now there have been reports suggesting that the defence could be a big focus.
A right-back is most definitely a priority, with Seamus Coleman having left and Nathan Patterson expected to move on.
A centre-back will also be considered.
As reported by the Liverpool Echo, left-back is still on the agenda for Everton despite Mykolenko’s extension.
However, it’s made clear that right-back is the more important position.
Joe Thomas writes (via Liverpool Echo): “On the left-back situation, I expect the club to keep an eye on the market this summer and for Everton to be open to finding cover and competition for Mykolenko. I do not think it is the highest priority, but I think there are issues down that side that the club is alive to and would address if a suitable solution emerged – particularly as I anticipate (Adam) Aznou will go out on loan.
“As for the right-back situation, Moyes and the club view that position as high priority and it would be extraordinary if the club went through another transfer window without addressing that issue.”
Everton should be signing Mykolenko upgrade
To learn that Everton are seemingly only going to swoop for left-back cover if a suitable situation emerges is worrying.
It is the wrong mindset, because Mykolenko – while probably overly criticised at times – is a weak link in the team.
He does not offer enough going forward, and there are still moments he doesn’t cover himself in glory defensively.
Everton should be making this position more of a priority. They should be looking to sign an actual upgrade, rather than cover. And even cover being brought in doesn’t feel especially pressing for Everton based on the tone here.
There is a full summer ahead of Everton, and really the club need to be taking the bull by the horns.
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