Ozan Kabak provides more incentive for Everton transfer after new reveal
Everton’s prospective interest in a move for Ozan Kabak could have a bonus, with the defender revealing his mindset around set pieces.
In football, whether or not we are fans of it, set pieces are proving to be more influential than ever, and it is an area that Everton could certainly improve in.
The Toffees are currently 11th for goals from set pieces this season, with nine scored in those situations.
Pushing the Blues further up the list could end up being the difference between a few positions in the Premier League.
With David Moyes fighting for Europe, those margins matter, and it is why an Everton transfer for Kabak may appeal even more, despite his previous association with Liverpool.
What has Ozan Kabak said about set pieces?
Everton’s interest in Kabak has emerged in the last few weeks, and while he may only be shortlisted for the summer, his ability from set plays could push him up that list.
Speaking to The Athletic, Kabak said: “I try to connect with four or five headers per game. I know I’m good enough to be strong at set pieces, but talent isn’t enough. You need the mindset and the mentality, so if I don’t hit the ball for (the first) 10 times, I will still make the 11th run with the same passion.”
Over the last 11 appearances in the Bundesliga, the Turkish defender has scored four goals, showcasing his prowess in such situations.
His tally is higher than any of the Blues’ centre-backs currently at the club.
| Players | Goals 2025-2026 Premier League |
| Michael Keane | 3 |
| James Tarkowski | 1 |
| Jarrad Branthwaite | 1 |
Scoring from set pieces has not been a major issue for Everton to address, but it is also an area where they can improve.
Signing a player such as Kabak, who is committed to improving and being decisive in those instances, makes a move look all the more attractive, especially seeing as he will be available on a free transfer.
Who could Ozan Kabak replace at Everton?
The Hoffenheim defender would likely be coming in to replace one of Moyes’ current options, with Michael Keane the most likely candidate to go.
Keane’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and with Kabak boasting a similar rate of scoring as a defender, it would be a like-for-like swap in that regard.
At 25 years old, the Toffees would also land a central defender who has plenty more years to go in his career compared to Keane at 33 years old.
Overall, it makes complete sense for Kabak to move to Hill Dickinson Stadium. It would certainly improve Moyes’ side in a key area.