Everton are making transfer plans ahead of the January transfer window, which opens in just 17 days.
David Moyes is eyeing Rayo Vallecano’s Nobel Mendy as he looks to add more depth to his defensive ranks.
The Toffees are also looking at Jens Petter Hauge, who is a tricky winger plying his trade for Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt.
Everton are interested in Nobel Mendy… do we need to sign a centre-back in January?
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A striker is on Moyes’ radar, too, with Republic of Ireland centre-forward Troy Parrott tipped to join Everton.
Now, Everton News columnist Alan Myers has confirmed the interest in a right-back who has recently been linked.
Botafogo right-back Vitinho.
Photo by Alex Pantling – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Everton are showing a ‘real interest’ in Vitinho
Writing in his exclusive Everton News column, Myers confirmed that Moyes is genuinely interested in signing Vitinho this winter.
“I still expect signings in January though, maybe as many as three,” Myers wrote.
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“I’m told Everton have shown a real interest in the Botafogo defender Vitinho, although it hasn’t progressed to an offer at this point.
“The 26-year-old is someone who would definitely fit the troublesome right-back position, however there is interest from other clubs in the former Burnley defender.”
How much of an upgrade would Vitinho be on Jake O’Brien? 🤩
An overview of Vitinho's 2024/25 season.
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Vincent Kompany said Vitinho’s attitude was ‘impeccable’ when he managed him in the Premier League with Burnley, so clearly the Bayern Munich manager was a big admirer of the Brazilian.
Everton could ask Carlo Ancelotti for his thoughts on Vitinho
Interestingly, Vitinho actually made his Brazil debut under former Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti earlier this year.
So, Moyes and his recruitment staff could contact Ancelotti directly to gather his thoughts on Vitinho’s ability and whether he’d be a good fit at the Toffees.
The Botafogo right-back would certainly be an upgrade on Jake O’Brien, as he provides a lot more of an attacking threat.
Name the left-back you’d love to see Everton sign to upgrade Mykolenko, go!
Everton left-back Vitali Mykolenko.
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
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According to FBref data, Vitinho ranks in the top nine per cent for progressive passes received compared to his positional peers.
That shows he gets into really advanced areas of the pitch with penetrating runs down the right flank.
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