Everton will reportedly be priced out of a move for one of their right-back targets this summer. The Blues have made filling the problem position a priority for the summer transfer window after captain Seamus Coleman confirmed he would not continue his playing career at the club next season and with Nathan Patterson expected to move on.
Should the Scotland international depart, that would leave Everton manager David Moyes without a senior recognised right-back in his squad. However, despite the availability of Coleman and Patterson, Moyes continued last season to play centre-back Jake O'Brien in the role.
Moyes Tracking Right-Backs for Over a Year
Moyes has been tracking an out-and-out right-back for the past year. Last summer he came close to landing one only for Kenny Tete to perform a U-turn on his decision to sign for the Blues and instead pen a new contract with Fulham.
Everton have been linked with a number of right-backs already this summer but, according to a report from The Times, one is likely to be out of their price range. Strasbourg's Guela Doue, who is currently competing at the World Cup with Ivory Coast and is the brother of France and Paris Saint-Germain winger Desire Doue, has long interested the Blues. However, his price tag of £40m is likely to prove prohibitive.
Four Alternatives in the Frame
The report states that two other right-backs currently competing at the World Cup are possible alternatives for Everton: Tottenham Hotspur and England's Djed Spence, and West Ham United and DR Congo's Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Atalanta and Italy's Raoul Bellanova is also a target.
Reports of genuine interest in Wan-Bissaka earlier this summer were premature but West Ham are eager to sell following their relegation, and the option for a quick, affordable upgrade is therefore there. The Blues have also been credited with interest in Ben White of Arsenal and Emil Holm of Bologna while, in January, along with Doue, they tracked Brooke Norton-Cuffy of Genoa.
Hackney Negotiations Ongoing
Meanwhile, negotiations over a deal for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney continue. Reports earlier this week suggested that the beaten play-off finalists were looking for a package worth £25m for the Championship Player of the Season. That asking price has yet to be clarified but the clubs have so far not been able to agree a transfer fee. Hackney, who is wanted by a number of Premier League outfits, is keen to join Everton.
