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Opinion: £20m defender joining David Moyes makes perfect sense after MOTM display vs Everton

David Moyes has added a new defensive target to the list this summer, and it’s a name Evertonians will know well.

With the season almost underway for Everton, business is far from done in the background of the Toffees.

Although Moyes’ starting lineup is taking shape, not everything is tiptop in the Scotsman’s eye.

New injuries have raised concerns as Jarrad Branthwaite will be injured for six weeks, meaning another option is needed.

The Blues seem to have found the perfect one, and he was someone who has completely excelled against Moyes.

Arsenal badge.

Photo by Kristian Skeie – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

David Moyes must sign target Jakub Kiwior after Man of the Match display against Everton

With the defender suffering another setback, Everton fans are worried about Branthwaite’s injury history.

It could be an issue that continues to crop up, so the Toffees need reinforcements, and Everton are now interested in Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior.

The Polish centre-back has Premier League experience, which could be added, as Kiwior could be keen on a more leading role after limited game time at the Gunners.

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He seems to have already passed Moyes’ test, as the 25-year-old was awarded Man of the Match by TNT Sports vs Everton in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal in April.

Minutes played 90

Passing accuracy % 94%

Passes into final third 10

Long ball accuracy % 67% (4/6)

Recoveries 3

Clearances 3

Jakub Kiwior’s MOTM display in Everton 1-1 Arsenal, as per FotMob

Kiwior managed to keep Beto quiet and stood out in a defence including Myles Lewis-Skelly and William Saliba.

But there is a key factor from the draw that makes perfect sense as to why the Toffees need to sign him.

Jakub Kiwior’s passing is needed at Everton with attribute missing in defence

During the encounter, it was his passing that stood out, as seen above, with the Polishman priding himself on his long-range balls.

This is something lacking in Moyes’ defence, as it seems he has more no-nonsense players at the back rather than a ball-player like Kiwior.

Jakub Kiwior 91.9%

Michael Keane 83.9%

Jarrad Branthwaite 82.9%

James Tarkowski 81.6%

Jake O’Brien 81.3%

Everton’s centre-backs’ passing accuracy (%) in 2024/25 compared to Jakub Kiwior

It makes sense for someone like the Arsenal star to come into Everton to provide something different, which the Blues lack.

Moyes wants more possession at Everton, so it’s written in the stars for the Scotsman to bring in someone of his qualities.

The 25-year-old would instantly improve the way the Toffees play, and this should certainly be a transfer that gets completed with all the factors considered.

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