Everton need to sign a new right-back in January, but David Moyes has already suffered a blow ahead of the transfer window.
Everton are certainly a work in progress after the first summer transfer window under The Friedkin Group.
Jack Grealish’s instant impact has excited fans, but Everton’s younger signings need more time to settle.
David Moyes will hope for more additions in January, and a right-back will be at the top of his wish list.
Jake O’Brien is doing a job at right-back, but he is a centre-back by trade and should not be the long-term answer.
1. FSV Mainz 05 v RB Leipzig - Bundesliga
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Anthony Caci delivers Everton transfer blow
Nathan Patterson has failed to deliver, and Seamus Coleman is now 37, so another option is required.
Iliman Ndiaye could thrive with an attack-minded right back overlapping him, and Everton have shown an interest in Anthony Caci.
The Mainz defender was set to become a free agent at the end of this season, and he has proven himself as a quality right-back in Germany.
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Caci racked up seven assists last season, but a hamstring problem has stalled his impact this term.
The 28-year-old could have been a bargain signing for Everton in 2026, but he has now decided to sign a new contract at Mainz.
Caci has penned a new two-year contract and will stay with Mainz until the summer of 2028.
“It’s great news for us. He’s a very talented player and he makes others better by extension,” said boss Bo Henriksen on Mainz’s official website.
“We’re delighted about the extension and miss having him on the pitch with us. Hopefully, he’s able to return as soon as possible,” he added.
Another right-back blow for Everton
Caci has effectively ruled out a January move to Everton, and Moyes will have to look elsewhere.
Right-back is becoming a problematic position for Everton, especially as other targets have fallen away in 2025.
Kenny Tete looked set to join Everton before signing a new contract at Fulham.
Everton eyed Georgios Vagiannidis from Panathinaikos, but he signed for Portuguese side Sporting instead.
Frenchman Caci is another player to cross off the list, but Everton need to find multiple targets to solve a real problem position ahead of January.