Everton are still in need of a left-back after failing to solve the problem position in January.
Going into the January transfer window, Sam Allardyce was tasked with solving a number of problem positions at Everton that had arisen from Ronald Koeman’s time in charge at Goodison Park.
A new striker was at the top of the agenda, and although new £27million signing Cenk Tosun is yet to find his feet on Merseyside, the Turkey international has undoubted quality that will surely eventually shine through.
The Toffees also needed a new winger, and Theo Walcott has hit the ground running after completing a move from Arsenal with two goals and an assist in his first four matches for Allardyce’s side.
But left-back was just as important as adding the other two players, with Leighton Baines still sidelined with a muscle injury. Luke Garbutt remains in the reserves and completely frozen out, so Cuco Martina has been playing out of position.
The summer signing has been indifferent throughout the season, proving inconsistent in terms of form. It should finally convince Allardyce to end Everton’s left-back woes and move for a proven left-sided defender in the summer.
It should turn his attention to experienced AC Milan left-back Luca Antontelli, who is expected to leave the San Siro in the summer with only 18 months left on his current deal. He has played just 127 minutes of Serie A football this season.
Italian outlet CalcioMercato claim Serie A rivals Fiorentina want to sign the 13-time Italy international, but Everton should beat them to it by offering Antontelli a chance to move to the Premier League.
Offering speed despite being 31 years of age, Antonelli would fit right at home in an Everton side that allow their full-backs to get forward. But like Baines and Seamus Coleman, the Italian is defensive-minded and is more than astute at the back.
For what is likely to be a small fee, Everton would be finally solving their left-back issues with Antonelli.
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