Everton are reportedly set to target at least three defenders this summer.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
According to the Liverpool Echo, Everton boss Ronald Koeman wants to bring in two centre backs and a right back to boost his defence this summer.
The Toffees have been fairly strong at the back for the majority of the season, conceding just 37 goals; the fifth-lowest amount of any Premier League team.
However, there are signs that the Everton defence is creaking somewhat. Maarten Stekelenburg, Ashley Williams, Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines are all over 30, Seamus Coleman is out with a long-term injury and the likes of Joel Robles and Ramiro Funes Mori have failed to prove themselves as top Premier League players.
As a result, the Liverpool Echo now report that Everton are now interested in signing three players to boost their back line, with Koeman wanting two centre backs and a right back.
Burnley’s Michael Keane celebrates scoring
It’s noted that Everton have a strong interest in Burnley defender Michael Keane, but interest from Manchester United has forced them to consider other targets, such as Hull City star Harry Maguire.
Koeman is claimed to be a huge fan of fellow Dutchman Virgil van Dijk having signed him at Southampton in 2015, but reuniting with the giant centre back could be tough given that the Saints will allegedly demand £55million for his signature.
Meanwhile, at right back, Koeman has been forced to use youngster Mason Holgate in Coleman’s absence, meaning that another option with more experience may be required – and recent reports have suggested that Koeman has a familiar target in mind.
Chelsea’s Diego Costa in action with Southampton’s Cuco Martina
The Daily Star claimed earlier this month that Koeman will return for Southampton defender Cuco Martina having failed to sign him last summer, in an attempt to reunite with the Curacao international, having also signed him for the Saints.
Out of contract this summer, the 27-year-old has spent most of the season on the fringes of the Southampton side, and could make sense as a cheap plug-in option at right back whilst Coleman rehabilitates from his brutal injury.
Who would you like to see Everton sign this summer?
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