Everton eye Trai Hume transfer as conflicting reports emerge over Sunderland exit
The Blues have cast their net wide and so far nothing has been sticking as they seek to solve a long-term issue in L3.
Another season of an out-of-position player filling out at right-back cannot be justified as the Toffees have had all summer to sign a full-back.
Multiple names, and frankly too many to mention now have been floated about as possible signings.
And now Sunderland's Hume is the latest to emerge on that list this summer.
As Everton move to sign a right-back before the deadline, the Black Cats' stance on their vice-captain has already emerged, or has it?
Will Sunderland allow Everton target Trai Hume to leave?
Everton's interest in Hume as faded away as quickly as it has emerged
On Thursday morning, 27 August, ESPN reported that Everton are attempting a move for Hume in a deal that could reach £20million.
They stated that based on their sources, Sunderland were open to allowing the full-back to leave ahead of the deadline.
However, now local outlet the Northern Echo has stated that is not the case, describing the links as a "surprise".
Hume is not expected to depart this summer, with Sunderland "having no intention" to sanction a sale.
Of course, with conflicting reports, we will have to wait and see what the next few days bring.
However, the Northern Echo has not denied that Everton are interest in Hume.
But with Sunderland qualifying for Europe last season and the Toffees looking to do the same this year, the two outfits may be rivalling each other for those positions this season
Why Everton are running into deep trouble over right-back signing
In the final few days of the window, with reports of Everton adding even more names to their shortlist, it does feel like a little bit of panic is emerging in L3.
The Blues have almost been linked to every right-back available on the market this summer and have yet to land a single one.
Every fan and even outsider knew that this was one of the biggest priorities for David Moyes' squad.
The Friedkin Group want European football at Hill Dickinson. However, with this level of squad-planning, they will be well out of the race.
The Toffees are running into deep trouble if they cannot act quick and if this becomes a yearly trend under this ownership.