Everton make approach to sign right-back Georgios Vagiannidis, £8.6m deal on the cards
Everton could sign Sporting CP defender Georgios Vagiannidis this summer.
David Moyes‘ side have been linked with the right-back previously, when he played for Panathinaikos before he linked up with the Lions.
A report from A Bola‘s print edition claims that the Blues have made contact over a potential deal for Vagiannidis.
It states that the Portuguese club would let him go as his performances have not convinced in Lisbon this season.
Everton are in desperate need of a right-back, so the Greek international could be a cut-price option for the Toffees if a deal can be reached.
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What is Vagiannidis’ stance on Sporting exit?
Vagiannidis would solve Everton’s biggest issue, and the report claims that he would be available for just £8.6million.
They face competition from the Spanish side Villarreal for his services, with both sides having enquired about the potential deal.
| Vagiannidis’ stats this season | Liga Portugal |
| Matches | 22 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Tackles per game | 2.47 |
| Ball recoveries per game | 3.03 |
| Clearances per game | 1.97 |
| Ground duels won | 58.7% |
| Aerial duels won | 77.3% |
It states that he could leave the Portuguese capital, as he has endured a lack of gametime, and the club would be open to an exit if they can recoup what they paid for his services last summer.
He has expressed his desire to stay and force his way into the team, but would be interested in trying a “more competitive league”, after already rejecting a return to Greece.
What does it mean for Everton’s right-backs?
Everton’s current right-back options are Jake O’Brien, Nathan Patterson and Seamus Coleman, but their futures are uncertain.
The former is naturally a centre-back and should be moved back there if Vagiannidis or any other right-back are signed.
The Scotsman has barely featured under Moyes, with a lack of trust from the manager and injury issues playing their part in that.
| Everton right-backs | Premier League appearances |
| Jake O’Brien | 37 |
| Nathan Patterson | 7 |
| Seamus Coleman | 5 |
He may well be allowed to leave if the 11-cap Greek ace or an alternative is added to the squad before the window closes.
Finally, Coleman has already confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the season, when his contract expires, so he will not be around next season, no matter what happens in terms of transfers.
Sorting a new right-back is absolutely key for the Toffees, if they are to progress under Moyes, and the Sporting star could be the answer.
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