Everton had made a fine start in the Premier League following two successive victories in the English top-flight against Fulham and Leicester City respectively. However, Marco Silva’s men have also had their fair share of problems so far with a number of their first-team starters missing out due to either injuries or suspensions.
The Toffees have also struggled to keep things tight at the back with only Michael Keane doing a good enough job. The likes of Phil Jagielka and Mason Holgate have flattered to deceive so far in this campaign while there are some growing concerns over the fitness and availability of Yerry Mina.
Hence, the Merseyside club can benefit from bringing in a fresh face in defence during the January transfer window so that they are well-equipped to challenge for a top 7 finish this term. Here are three centre-backs Marco Silva should look to recruit in the winter transfer period.
Lewis Dunk
The Brighton & Hove Albion defensive ace has been a solid presence for Chris Hughton’s side over the past couple of seasons. He is exactly the type of talent who can thrive with regular first-team chances at Goodison Park and so the Toffees should look to lure him to Merseyside in January. With 45 Premier League matches under his belt, the English centre-half has enough experience of playing at the highest level and could be a shrewd acquisition for Silva’s side.
James Tarkowski
The Burnley defender played an integral part for Sean Dyche’s team last season when he put in a string of commanding performances to help the Clarets claim a 7th place finish in the English top-flight. He has begun this campaign quite well, making 13 appearances for the Lancashire side in all competitions and has two league goals to his name so far.
Tarkowski will be the perfect partner to play alongside Michael Keane at the heart of the Everton backline as the defensive duo had previously developed a fantastic partnership during their time together at the Turf Moor.
Phil Jones
The Manchester United centre-back has hardly featured in Jose Mourinho’s starting XI this season so the Toffees should try luring him to Goodison Park in January. He has a wealth of experience in the top tier of England and would undoubtedly bolster the Everton backline and add more competition for places within Silva’s squad.
