Everton have strengthened this summer, but one hole remains in David Moyes‘ squad.
A new right-back is no longer a useful addition, it has become a necessity.
Seamus Coleman ended his 17-year Everton career after last season, removing the most trusted specialist in the position. Nathan Patterson is now the only senior right back available to Moyes, yet injuries and inconsistent selection have prevented the Scotland international from making the role his own.
Jake O’Brien can cover there, but the Republic of Ireland defender is more comfortable in the centre. Using him on the flank limits what Everton can offer going forward, particularly alongside Brennan Johnson.
The search for a solution has dragged across the summer.
Everton held discussions over Alistair Johnston, only for talks with Celtic to stall over the valuation. Johnston has since suffered another injury, adding yet more uncertainty.
Djed Spence was considered before completing his move to Inter Milan, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka is now believed to be the subject of advancing negotiations between West Ham and Aston Villa.
Moyes needs more than defensive reliability, and one by one, Everton’s leading options have started disappearing.
That has pushed a familiar name back into focus.
Everton ready to move for Arsenal defender Ben White
Football Insider’s Wayne Veysey reports Everton are ready to make a move for Arsenal defender Ben White if the Premier League champions complete their pursuit of Ezri Konsa.
The outlet also slaims White is open to moving to Merseyside because he wants to play regular first team football.
White joined Arsenal from Brighton for £50 million in 2021 and initially played at centre-back. Mikel Arteta later moved him to right back, where his calm use of the ball and understanding with Bukayo Saka helped Arsenal become title challengers.
Jurrien Timber has since moved ahead of White, while fitness problems have repeatedly interrupted his momentum.
White, who also had a loan spell at Leeds in 19/20, made just 12 Premier League appearances and racked up 30 outings across all competitions last season. A knee ligament injury then ruled him out of the final league matches and Arsenal’s Champions League final.
White is reportedly fit again, but his injury record and price require careful thought. His Arsenal contract runs until 2028, with an option for another year.
Football Insider claims Konsa’s move from Aston Villa is almost complete, potentially placing another defender between White and regular football.
There are conflicting reports, however. Other media sources say Arsenal have turned towards Bayer Leverkusen’s Jarell Quansah after struggling to meet Villa’s valuation.
Everton there can’t just assume White will become available, but if he does, the appeal is clear. White could immediately start at right back, provide central defensive cover and bring experience from a title-winning side.
His recent injuries would carry risk, but Everton are running out of alternatives and time.
