An image of Jose Mourinho with David Moyes in a circular inset
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Tue 26 August 2025 14:00, UK
Everton are ready to strengthen their defensive line with a player praised by Jose Mourinho.
David Moyes has been without Jarrad Branthwaite in the opening matches of the Premier League, and his absence has been felt.
While James Tarkowski and Michael Keane kept a clean sheet against Brighton, the Merseyside club looked frail at times.
With that in mind, Moyes could have more pace in his backline after what Mourinho said.
Jarrad Branthwaite in Everton FC v AS Roma, Pre-Season Friendly
Branthwaite is yet to play this season (Credit: Imago)
Everton interested in signing free agent Victor Lindelof
Everton were linked with Lindelof while he was at Man United, but the Swede eventually left Old Trafford for nothing.
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It had been suggested that Moyes’ side would have to offer Lindelof substantial wages, but they could now be able to sanction a cheaper package.
Now, the Merseyside are set to compete for Lindelof, according to Alfredo Pedulla on 26 August.
Pedulla works for TV Dello Sport and is followed by nearly 400,000 people on X, making him a valid source for news.
However, Everton are not the only ones eyeing Lindelof as Brentford are also interested, while Fiorentina are closely monitoring his situation.
Read more: Friedkins ‘to seal first Everton transfer’ after Victor Lindelof announcement
Victor Lindelof playing for Man United.
Lindelof during his Man United days (Credit: Imago)
Jose Mourinho’s praise for Victor Lindelof
Lindelof played under Mourinho during his debut season at Old Trafford, having arrived for substantial money from Benfica.
While he endured a sticky start, the centre-back came in for praise from the Portuguese for his performance against Watford.
“I think Richarlison is a very good player and a difficult player to play against but Victor is very fast,” Mourinho said via Sky Sports in November 2017.
“He has adapted to play centrally but also to go to the sides because he’s got the agility that many of the central defenders don’t have. I think it was another very positive performance by Victor.”
Lindelof has made 71 appearances for Sweden
He has 194 Premier League appearances under his belt
He appeared 284 times for Man United
Indeed, Moyes’ current centre-back partnership is lacking in pace, meaning Lindelof could solve a problem for the Scot.
Given that the Toffees have held prior interest in the 31-year-old and that he is a free agent, he could be a sensible signing for the Merseyside club.
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