The seven-cap international is third-choice left-back at Borussia Dortmund.
Benfica’s Peruvian forward Andre Carrillo (R) vies with Dortmund’s defender Erik Durm
Everton have been resurgent since the appointment of Sam Allardyce at Goodison Park. However, they should not be complacent going into January, with the transfer window a chance to strengthen the team even further.
One area that Everton need to improve is at left-back. Leighton Baines’ qualities are fading fast and Cuco Martina is not an adequate replacement.
Leighton Baines (L) of Everton celebrates
An option that Everton must consider is the talented Borussia Dortmund utility player Erik Durm. The 25-year-old used to be a regular in the Dortmund first-team, at one point usurping Marcel Schmelzer as the preferred choice. That form and presence in one of Germany’s top tams saw him earn seven caps for his country, even winning the World Cup with Germany in 2014.
However, he has had some injury trouble recently and had hip surgery earlier this year. Durm, who can also play at right-back or holding midfield, is back in full training and pushing for the Dortmund first-team. That said, he will face a tough battle to overtake Portuguese international Raphael Guerreiro and Schmelzer in the club’s pecking order at left-back.
Germany’s defender Erik Durm (C) holds The World Cup as he celebrates with teammates
Everton therefore have themselves a wonderful opportunity. Durm is an extremely talented and experienced operator whose flexibility would add many strings to Allardyce’s bow at Goodison.
A potential loan deal would surely be an option for Everton and Dortmund, who would love to give Durm a chance to play some regular football and consider their options regarding the gifted but injury-prone defender.
A great deal for both parties and one that Everton fans would love to see happen in January.
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