Everton are reportedly eyeing a move to sign Arsenal defender Ben White in the January transfer window, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.
Adding a new right-back could be a major priority for Everton in the current window. It's been a key issue for the Toffees for a while now, with Seamus Coleman reaching the latter stages of his career, struggling with injuries, while Nathan Patterson hasn't developed as the club would have expected.
David Moyes has utilised Jake O'Brien as his number one option at right-back predominantly this season, but it often hampers Everton when it comes to their production in the final third. O'Brien isn't a traditional, modern-day full-back who likes to get involved in the opposition half, often leaving the winger isolated.
Everton Eyeing Right-Back Move
ben white
According to journalist O'Rourke, Everton are now eyeing a move to sign Arsenal defender White. It's claimed that the Toffees are looking to solve their 'problematic right-back issue', with White now a target for the Merseyside club.
White, who earns £187,500-a-week at the Emirates Stadium, has predominantly been used as a right-back during his time with Arsenal, despite spending most of his career before his move to the Emirates as a centre-back. With Jurrien Timber now the preferred choice, White has struggled to become a regular under Mikel Arteta this season.
Injuries have halted his progress and ability to displace Timber in the starting XI, but it still wouldn't be a surprise if he were keen on a departure this month in order to play more regularly.
David Moyes Related
Everton Eyeing Move to Sign ‘Incredible’ English Star in January
The Toffees are looking to bring in a new wide defender to David Moyes’ squad this month.
Only a Loan Move Would Make Sense for Everton
Arsenal's Ben White looks dejected
White turns 29 later this year, and considering Arsenal paid a significant fee for him, they'd likely want a significant fee to allow him to depart if he were to leave on a permanent deal. Everton shouldn't be investing too much money in players reaching the latter stages of their career, especially on players who have struggled for minutes of late.
White has endured injury troubles over the last few years, undergoing knee surgery during the middle of last season. The England international was also out with a hamstring problem in December, so it might be a risk based on his wages, potential fee, and injury history.