Everton could agree this January loan signing despite what data team have said
David Moyes will be looking to address one problem position in his Everton squad during the January transfer window.
The Toffees have had a steady start to the Premier League season, sitting 10th in the table and just five points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea as it stands.
However, Everton’s lack of squad depth has been exposed over the last few weeks, as a combination of injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have forced Moyes to rotate.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye have been the notable absentees, but the Merseyside outfit will focus on addressing their backline in January.
Everton target right-back in January window
With Seamus Coleman set for a spell on the sidelines, Moyes is extremely short on options in the right-back area.
Coleman was forced off during Everton’s 1-0 win over Manchester United last month, and at the age of 37, his fitness is no longer as reliable as it once was.
Without the Republic of Ireland international, the Toffees don’t seem to trust Nathan Patterson.
Moyes has instead utilised Jake O’Brien in that position for the majority of the season, with James Garner also filling in when needed.
According to The Athletic, Everton could sign a new right-back in the January window, although figures inside the club recognise that finding a long-term option could prove challenging.
The Toffees may instead decide to dip into the loan market to cover themselves for the second half of the campaign, with options possibly available ahead of the World Cup.
Everton data team warn against January deals
The Athletic add that Everton’s data department has discovered that January signings tend to struggle in the Premier League compared to players brought in over the summer.
Therefore, there is an expectation that the window will be a quiet one at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
However, the right-back issue is pressing, which is why the Toffees could bring in a loan signing for the second half of the campaign.
It would mean Everton could fill the void left by the injured Coleman and others, while also protecting themselves if the incoming player fails to meet expectations.
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