Everton targeting right-back in January transfer window | OneFootball

Everton are considering bringing in a right-back in January as injuries and short-term solutions continue to stretch the position, according to reports from BBC Sport.

Seamus Coleman, now 37, has started only once this season after injury problems, while Nathan Patterson has yet to feature in the Premier League. Their absence has forced Everton to rely on centre-back Jake O’Brien and midfielder James Garner to cover the right side of defence.

Garner’s form in midfield has been one of the bright spots of Everton’s campaign, and the club would prefer to keep him in his natural role rather than continue using him as a makeshift full-back.

Because the team have coped well in recent weeks, Everton are expected to move only if the right player becomes available. Brazilian full-back Vitinho, who plays for Botafogo, is one option being monitored, but the club are also prepared to wait until the summer of 2026 if needed.

Everton have won four of their last five matches and sit seventh in the Premier League, raising hopes of an unexpected European push. Manager David Moyes has spoken openly about aiming for European qualification, while also stressing that the club is still rebuilding after difficult seasons.

“We’re going for it,” Moyes said. “The players know the aim.”

GFN | Finn Entwistle