Everton in pole position to beat Inter Milan to deal for new defender
Everton ended the winter transfer window with just one signing, but they were in the market for more.
Tyrique George arrived on deadline day, as David Moyes’ squad required another forward following the injury to Jack Grealish
However, the future of Nathan Patterson was also a heavily discussed topic, with the Scotsman constantly linked with a move away from Hill Dickinson Stadium.
In the event that Patterson left, the Toffees would need to sign a replacement, and the fullback could still leave in the summer.
Now, it looks like Moyes is in the driving seat already for a potential backup after this season.
Everton leading race for Brooke Norton-Cuffy
Everton have been monitoring Genoa’s Brooke Norton-Cuffy, with the Englishman lined up as a potential right-back signing.
A move in January did not occur, with the defender remaining with the Serie A side, at least until the end of the season.
Everton sent scouts to watch Norton-Cuffy, and the decision was made to wait to see more of the player before going ahead with a move.
However, if they do go in for the 22-year-old, they seemingly hold an advantage already.
According to journalist Pino Brenzini on Radio Napoli Centrale (via Tuttonapoli), despite interest from European giants Juventus and Inter Milan, plus other Premier League sides, “Everton [are] in pole position for next season”.
The information from Brenzini also says that “Genoa prefer to sell players abroad”.
Nathan Patterson is fighting for his Everton future
Patterson has been given chances over the last few weeks, but with Everton’s availability concerns at the back clearing up, it remains to be seen if he has impressed enough to continue featuring, with early signs pointing to no.
The return of Michael Keane from suspension and Jarrad Branthwaite’s return from injury have boosted Moyes’ options, and the Scotsman was immediately put back on the bench against Brighton.
At the moment, it seems clear that Patterson’s future is away from Hill Dickinson, and him staying after the winter window looks to be because the Toffees could not source a replacement.
It will be an important few months for the player, and who knows, perhaps he can surprise a few and end up making a case to stick around.
If not, it seems like Norton-Cuffy could be on his way to Merseyside.