Where Everton’s right back search stands as ‘frustrating problem’ emerges

Everton's focus in the transfer market has now turned to right-back.

Blues supporters will be delighted as they have been crying out for an addition in that area.

David Moyes has been forced to play Jake O'Brien out of position, and that has run its course.

Seamus Coleman has departed the club after his contract expired, and Nathan Patterson is not the answer.

The last time that the Merseysiders spent a fee on a right-back in a summer transfer window was 2005 when they signed Phil Neville.

However, that may be set to change in the near future.

What is the latest on Everton's right-back hunt?

The last major area for the Blues to address is the right side of defence, somewhere where they have struggled in recent years.

The i News reported on Tuesday that the Toffees have a "sizeable budget" to sign a player in the position, but they have a frustrating problem trying to find the right one for the right price.

Everton's interest in Alistair Johnston has been widely covered, but a £5million difference in valuation is described a "stumbling block".

It also states that Aaron Wan-Bissaka's potential arrival is viewed as a "non-starter" as a result of his high wage demands.

Brooke Norton-Cuffy has supporters in the transfer committee, but it is not universal, according to the report.

It is understood that the Blues are willing to press on with other targets, ones not named publicly and want to sign one in the next seven to 10 days, with hope that it can be sorted before Crystal Palace on 22 August.

Where else do Everton want to strengthen?

The L3 outfit have already brought in Merlin Rohl and Tyrique George permanently.

They are also hoping to make Jack Grealish's stay a permanent one, after his brilliant loan spell last season, where he notched two goals and six assists by January, when he was ruled out for the rest of the season.

They also added Hayden Hackney, Christian Norgaard and Brennan Johnson to their ranks, so a lot of issues have been resolved.

The report states that they will only enter the market if there is the right opportunity.

Although, an Iliman Ndiaye departure could open the door for a new winger and a forward, it is claimed.