Everton told Fulham that Jonjoe Kenny would not be involved in a last-ditch transfer after Marco Silva’s side enquired into a late move for the right-back, per the Liverpool Echo.
The Toffees have sought to offload Kenny either permanently or on loan in each of the past three seasons. But Director of Football Marcel Brands did not receive any approaches for the 24-year-old at a suitable stage this summer.
Kenny will remain at Goodison Park until January, when Everton will reassess his situation, and offer cover for Seamus Coleman. The Toffees had sought to sell the former England U21 international to help fund their search for the Republic of Ireland star’s long-term heir.
Rafa Benitez was not prepared to sanction any spending on a player that did not meet his precise criteria. Brands proposed a deal for Denzel Dumfries before he joined Inter Milan from PSV Eindhoven. But with money tight and some concerns, Benitez was not convinced.
Everton also made Rangers two offers for Nathan Patterson, but could not meet the Gers’ valuation of the 19-year-old. The Scottish giants’ asking price could put the Blues off a deal in the future, as well. While Benitez also turned down committing wages on other options.
The Spanish coach is happy to keep Kenny as a make-do back-up until they can explore the right-back market again. So, Brands told Fulham that Kenny would not be leaving in a last-ditch deal, following Silva’s Championship side’s late enquiry into his services.
Will Everton regret blocking Fulham move for Kenny?
Kenny has not featured under Benitez in the Premier League since returning to Everton from his half-season Celtic loan spell. The Liverpool-born full-back has occupied a seat on the bench in each of their fixtures. While playing the full 90 at Huddersfield in the EFL Cup.
It is unlikely Benitez fields Kenny in the top-flight, barring any injuries, despite him staying at Everton following Fulham’s interest. The Toffees could regret blocking a last-ditch exit, too, as he is in the final year of a £15k-a-week contract.
Everton will struggle to again request anywhere near the £10m demanded from Burnley for Kenny in January, per the Mirror. And with Mason Holgate plus Ben Godfrey both able to play right-back, Benitez did not also need to keep Kenny.
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