Everton to Accept David Moyes Transfer Request and Green Light January Move | OneFootball

Moyes Seeks January Solution as Everton Target Right-Back Reinforcement

Everton’s January transfer plans appear to be gathering momentum as David Moyes looks to address a clear weakness in his squad. The 1-1 draw with West Ham United at the Hill Dickinson Stadium laid bare the lack of a specialist right-back, something that has been brewing since the summer. According to TeamTalk, Moyes is determined to rectify what many see as a key recruitment oversight.

Right-Back Conundrum Exposed Against West Ham

Jake O’Brien, a natural centre-back, has been deputising at right-back since Moyes returned to Goodison Park. While the Irishman has impressed in spells, his defensive vulnerabilities in wide areas were highlighted when Malick Diouf’s marauding run from the left set up Jarrod Bowen’s equaliser on Monday night.

O’Brien’s display prompted questions over Everton’s decision not to secure a full-back in the summer. “That is one of the areas we are looking at,” a source close to Everton’s recruitment team told TeamTalk.

Photo: IMAGO

Moyes had previously targeted Fulham’s Kenny Tete, with negotiations said to have been close to completion before the Dutchman signed improved terms at Craven Cottage. Other options explored included Kyle Walker-Peters, who ironically started for West Ham in that very match, and veteran Kyle Walker, who ended up at Burnley.

January Targets and Patterson’s Uncertain Future

With backing from the Friedkin Group, Everton are reportedly prepared to invest again this winter, as they push to climb the Premier League table and challenge for European football. Juanlu Sanchez of Sevilla has resurfaced as a potential target, with scouting continuing to identify further candidates.

The pursuit of a new right-back could spell the end of Nathan Patterson’s Everton career. The Scottish international’s proposed loan move to Sevilla collapsed late in the summer due to the Toffees failing to line up a replacement. Unless Patterson forces his way back into the side, TeamTalk suggests his future at Goodison Park looks bleak.

Moyes Focused on Progress Despite Challenges

Despite the defensive setback against West Ham, Everton’s start to the season has been encouraging. The Toffees are ninth in the Premier League, level on points with five clubs including Chelsea, and remain unbeaten at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Reflecting on the performance, Moyes said: “We did a lot of good things but we just couldn’t quite craft a chance to get a second goal. Once we didn’t get it, West Ham grew in confidence and belief that they could get something themselves, which they did. Some good things and some not so good things.”

The manager stressed patience in their rebuilding process, stating: “We want to raise expectations but we can’t forget that we have a long journey to go and we are just at the start of it.”

Strategic January Window Holds the Key

For Everton, the January window presents an opportunity to solidify their defensive line and keep the momentum going. A reliable right-back would not only balance the squad but could also help unlock greater attacking potential from wide areas.

Moyes has shown that he is not afraid to acknowledge past transfer miscalculations. By acting decisively this winter, he could transform what has been an early-season Achilles heel into a position of strength, ensuring Everton remain in the mix for European qualification.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Everton supporter, there is plenty to feel encouraged about after reading this report from TeamTalk. The right-back situation has been a nagging issue for years and, to be honest, seeing Malick Diouf slice through our flank for West Ham’s equaliser felt like déjà vu. It is refreshing to hear Moyes is ready to confront the problem head-on.

Bringing in a proper right-back in January could change everything. We already look more solid than in recent seasons and adding someone dependable on the right side of defence would give us balance and a bit more attacking edge. The thought of having an overlapping full-back to support our wingers is exciting.

Jake O’Brien deserves credit for stepping up in an unfamiliar role, but it is not fair to expect him to deliver consistently out of position. Patterson’s situation is unfortunate, but the club must prioritise performance on the pitch.

There is a sense of optimism at Goodison under Moyes. Unbeaten at our new stadium, sitting in the top half and still with room to improve, it finally feels like we are moving in the right direction. If we can secure a strong right-back in January, perhaps even someone like Juanlu Sanchez, it could push us towards a genuine European challenge this season.

For supporters, the message is clear: this January window is not about luxury signings, it is about addressing a long-standing problem that could unlock the next step in Everton’s resurgence.