Everton are in desperate need of a new left-back.
David Moyes opted to field Jarrad Branthwaite, a central defender by trade, in that position for the 1-1 draw at Brighton last time out following an injury to Vitalii Mykolenko.
Everton News columnist Alan Myers Q&A session on TalkingPoints.
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However, the Ukraine international has struggled to shine so far this season regardless, and is arguably the weakest link in the starting XI for Everton. He also lacks quality in the final third, with zero goal involvements in his 20 Premier League appearances this term.
Despite this, Everton have not made a serious push for a new left-back, and fans will surely be feeling a bit of envy as Nottingham Forest agree a £2m deadline day deal for Luca Netz, according to The Athletic.
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Everton should have matched £2m Luca Netz offer amid lack of quality at left-back
For whatever reason, Moyes does not fancy Adam Aznou as a genuine alternative to Mykolenko, so a fresh face is needed to challenge the Ukrainian.
However, the Toffees appear to have just sat and watched as Nottingham Forest arrange a deal for Netz to link up with Sean Dyche, a talented left-back with 17 caps for the Germany U21 side.
The 22-year-old has made 15 appearances in the Bundesliga for Borussia Monchengladbach so far this season, recording two assists and averaging more dribbles and key passes per game than Mykolenko has for Everton in 20 Premier League games.
Of course, Netz may struggle in English football, but for just £2m, it is a gamble The Friedkin Group should have taken as Moyes finds himself with a lack of options in the left-back department.
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Adam Aznou may even be sold
Everton might end the transfer window with even fewer options at left-back, as TEAMtalk say Marseille are targeting a late deal for Aznou.
Moyes left Aznou out completely as Everton earned a 1-1 draw at Brighton, a sign that he was being wrapped in cotton wool ahead of a deadline day exit.
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David Moyes quote on Adam Aznou's struggles at Everton.
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Moyes even said the 19-year-old has “opportunities” to leave before the deadline, so Everton may well end up with Mykolenko as their only natural left-back for the second half of the season.
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