Just how fast is Djed Spence? Everton's new transfer target is among Premier League's quickest
Djed Spence could prove to be the answer to Everton's right-back problems.
The Blues have struggled to find a solution in the position, with Jake O'Brien playing there regularly last season.
David Moyes is on the lookout for an option that will give his side a permanent solution to the issue.
Spence has been linked to Everton already this summer, and the Athletic backed that up on Tuesday.
He is currently starring at the World Cup with England, and enjoyed a decent spell under new manager Roberto De Zerbi at the end of the season.
One particular aspect of the 11-cap international's game will appeal to the Toffees, his blistering speed.
Where Everton target Djed Spence ranks in Premier League speed metric
Spence is absolutely rapid, which is surely exactly why the Merseysiders are interested in his services.
In fact, he ranked as the third fastest player in the Premier League last season, in terms of sprint speed.
Only Wolves' Jackson Tchatchoua (23.17 and 22.97mph) and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli (22.82mph) reached speeds in excess of Spence's 22.75mph in the 2025-26 campaign.
The 25-year-old recorded that speed against Wolves on 25 April as his side secured a 1-0 victory, per data from the league.
Why Spence's speed would take Everton to a new level
Spence would provide the L3 outfit with a totally different type of player in the position.
They do not currently have a rapid defender, who can catch up to attackers who have broken through their lines.
None of the right-back options at their disposal, O'Brien or Nathan Patterson have that asset in their locker.
In fact, striker Thierno Barry ranked as their fastest player, with a top speed of 21.96mph recorded against Aston Villa in January.
Spence could have the same effect as Kyle Walker, with brilliant recovery pace allowing him to get back and deal with rapid opposing attackers, making up for flaws in other areas.
That would surely make the Toffees a much better defensive unit and lead to them conceding less goals, which would increase their chances of European qualification.
It makes perfect sense to add him to their ranks, and they should do everything that they can to agree a deal with the North London side for the speed demon.