Everton hunt to sign Taras Mykhavko proves David Moyes' tactical evolution is in full swing

Everton's interest in Ukrainian centre-back Taras Mykhavko proves a whole lot more than the Blues eyeing defensive reinforcements.

As the season nears the Blues will be wanting to get more deals over the line.

So far, it has just been Hayden Hackney that has strenghtened David Moyes' squad from last season.

Work is underway to improve the backline ranks, with a new right-back firmly on the agenda.

However, Goodison News have also relayed reports that central defender Mykhavko is of interest to Everton this window.

And his arrival could represent the changing of the guard at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

What profile of defender is Taras Mykhavko?

When you think of Everton centre-backs, you think of those battling, aggressive and physical players that get their foot and head on the end of any tackle.

Current defender James Tarkowski is the greatest example of that fact.

However, Moyes looks to be moving towards something different and perhaps a more progressive style of play in Merseyside.

Mykhavko, while strong defensively, particularly in the air with him leading the charts for aerial duels won in Ukraine, also brings about some excellent on-ball traits with him.

According to Data.MB, in the Ukrainian Premier League, the 21-year-old finished in second for progressive carries among all centre-backs per 90 with 1.97.

He also finished in third for progressive actions per 90 (13.26) and progressive passes per 90 (11.29).

If it is the case that Moyes is hoping to be more front-footed, that would be a welcome change in L3.

The links to Mykhavko are not sole proof in of itself that these changes are in the works of being made.

Everton have also been linked with Nathan Zeze over the last week, and Zeze, like Mykhavko, is a progressive profile of centre-back.

How Mykhavko move could have Jake O'Brien implications

If Everton were to sign Mykhavko, that would mean they have five centre-backs contracted.

On paper, that is a little overkill, seeing as in a four-man defence only two are used at a time.

But Moyes has also shown a willingess to adopt a new formation this season.

Against Bolton Wanderers, the Scotman deployed his team in a three-at-the-back set-up with high-flying wing-backs.

And with three centre-backs used per games, adding a fifth to the ranks makes plenty of sense.

However, if not, the arrival of Mykhavko could simply see Moyes decide to use Jake O'Brien as his back-up right-back amid reports Everton are pushing to sign Alistair Johnston.