Zakaria El Ouahdi priority revealed as Everton ready first January transfer
Everton are continuing their efforts to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi from Genk this winter.
El Ouahdi has emerged as a target for Everton in recent weeks as David Moyes looks to add defensive reinforcements to his squad in January.
The Scot hasn’t been shy about his desire to add to his side this month, with Ben White also linked to Everton at this stage.
Right-back is seemingly on the shopping list at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, as Everton have also maintained interest in El Ouahdi.
The Toffees have now learnt where El Ouahdi sees his future beyond the winter window ahead of a potential Merseyside switch.
Zakaria El Ouahdi wants Premier League move in January
Jake O’Brien seeks to benefit from El Ouahdi in L4 as the Irishman could return to his recognised centre-back role if he comes in from the Belgian Pro League.
The Morocco international poses a step up in quality for the Blues after a hugely impressive campaign with Genk so far.
Having contributed to five goals in 14 league games from right-back, there is no surprise that interest in his signature is building.
The Daily Mirror reported on Tuesday that clubs in the Bundesliga are challenging Everton and Crystal Palace to land El Ouahdi in January.
That looks unlikely to result in a winter move to Germany, with the 24-year-old said to have a preference towards a Premier League move.
Everton must beat Crystal Palace to El Ouahdi
The Toffees are desperate for a recognised right-back option who can be trusted to play every available minute in blue.
Nathan Patterson hasn’t been afforded that chance, and O’Brien isn’t a recognised full-back option, despite a positive spell there in recent months.
El Ouahdi has the capability to get up and down the right flank and be a regular on Merseyside across the rest of the season.
That could see Moyes offer the Moroccan plenty more minutes than Crystal Palace can offer, something that should surely be enough for Everton to land his signature.