There have been many questions asked about who should be Everton’s first choice right-back going into next season.
Many claim that Séamus Coleman is no longer Everton’s automatic incumbent of right defence, and his inconsistencies on the pitch have gone some way to confirm that this season.
Others raise their doubts over the long-term viability of Jonjoe Kenny, who is currently jostling for a starting berth, with some believing the England Under-21 international is either not yet ready to take on the responsibility or not good enough to take over the mantle on a permanent basis.
Given Everton’s on-field issues that have plagued the club this season, change is expected in the summer, financial muscle is expected to be flexed, and right-back could well be a key area that Marcel Brands and Marco Silva decide to strengthen in.
Here are a number of right-back options that I believe could pique the interest of Everton in the summer…
Šime Vrsaljko
Despite his ability and reputation, the Croatia international never captured the hearts of Inter Milan supporters during his spell there this season, which was unfortunately cut short due to injury.
Inter have now replaced Vrsaljko with Southampton loan signing Cédric Soares, and it remains unclear whether the 27-year old can find his place with parent club Atlético Madrid.
It may not seem likely, but I would have said the same thing about signing Barcelona’s second choice left-back last summer…
Omar Elabdellaoui
Presuming Marco Silva makes it to next season without being given the chop, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Portuguese coach target the Norway full-back.
Silva inherited Elabdellaoui at Olympiakos, but the 27-year old made enough of an impact that Silva brought him to Hull on loan, and also attempted to bring him to Vicarage Road while with Watford.
Could another attempt be launched with the Blues?
Aaron Wan-Bisakka
I imagine the England Under-21 international will be wanted by a fair few clubs this summer, on account of his incredible consistency and ability demonstrated in the Premier League with Crystal Palace.
Wan-Bissaka has had his name linked to many of the English elite, however Everton may be able to offer him more minutes than some of the clubs that possess a much richer squad depth than the Toffees.
Wan-Bissaka would also cost a pretty penny, but then nowadays, who doesn’t?
Éder Militão
Militão is another player who is likely to be swarmed with offers this summer, which does admittedly limit Everton’s chances.
Impressive as both a centre-back and right-back, the Brazilian would rather play in the middle, but is said to be dead set on a move to the Premier League over other European divisions.
Maybe that, and guaranteed minutes, could tempt the 21-year old to move to Merseyside.
Thomas Meunier
Everton have been frequently linked with the Paris Saint-Germain defender in recent times. His name was mentioned as a makeweight in any deal for Idrissa Gueye, and even as recent as this week reports have suggested negotiations are underway.
The Belgium international even name-checked Everton recently, claiming his aim is to get back to playing regular football, because that’s where the fun lies.
He’d certainly get that if he rocked up at Goodison Park at the end of the season.