Everton should be on the lookout for a new left-back this month.
A new left-back should be at the top of Everton’s transfer priorities this month after the club finally replaced the loss of Romelu Lukaku with striker Cenk Tosun last week.
Leighton Baines’ long-term injury has seen the Toffees play with Cuco Martina out of position on the left side of defence, which former Everton defender Michael Ball has claimed is currently the Toffees’ weak point.
The Toffees have plenty of backing from owner Farhad Moshiri and that will allow Sam Allardyce to target a big name with three weeks remaining in the January transfer window.
It should see him consider some of Europe’s best left-backs, and that allow him to consider Zenit St. Petersburg captain Domenico Criscito who is currently in the final year of his contract with Robert Mancini’ side.
Reports have suggested that Inter Milan are after the 31-year-old defender, as he enters the final six months of his current deal. He is available on a free transfer right now, if signed on a pre-contract agreement that would see him join in the summer.
However, Zenit may be willing to part company with him this month in order to obtain a fee for their star defender, and Everton should test the Russian side’s resolve with a January bid.
The 22-time Italy international has huge experience from his time with Zenit as well as turning out for Serie A champions Juventus as well as Genoa, and can also play in the middle of the defence.
Known for his defensive rigidity but also his willingness to get forward, landing Criscito would be a huge coup for Everton as the defender is now in the peak of his career.
Luring him to Goodison Park would see Everton finally add the missing piece to their jigsaw, and give the Toffees the best chance of pushing on and challenging for the top six of the Premier League during the second half of the season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
