- Mykolenko has been first-choice left back since moving from Dynamo Kyiv in 2022.
- Aznou was signed last summer as alternative but has made one first XI appearance.
- Toffees now linked with Matt Targett, after impressing on loan at Middlesbrough.
Vitalii Mykolenko has been Everton’s go-to left back since 2022 and has proven to be a good servant for the Toffees.
The Ukrainian has made over 150 appearances for the Blues but has gone throughout his career on Merseyside with no cover to his position.
David Moyes has an interest in renewing Mykolenko’s contract, but he also wants to strengthen his options in this area of the pitch.
Matt Targett linked with Everton
Experienced left-back Matt Targett has been linked as a potential incoming at Everton following a resurgent season at Middlesbrough, according to TEAMtalk.
The 30-year-old is currently on loan from Newcastle United and has been a key player on Teeside after amassing 39 appearances in all competitions, along with four goals and three assists.
Targett was one of the first players to move to St James’ Park following Newcastle’s takeover by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
In his first season there, he played 16 times in the league and was a big part in their amazing U-turn that saw the Toon go from dead bottom to finishing in 11th place.
But he has since lost his standing in the Newcastle side, and in the three seasons following his first, he has only made 22 league appearances.
With his Newcastle deal set to expire this June, several clubs have been linked with a potential free transfer.
Matt Targett offers a useful short-term solution
Targett’s performances in the Championship this season have proven he is still a useful left back and is made for the top level of English football.
Mykolenko has shown his worth at left-back for Everton, and his effort is commendable, but he needs to have someone else in the squad who can challenge him for his position.
By signing Targett on a free transfer, this would ensure depth on the left side of defence, but also introduce a new name at left back and create some internal competition.
Everton’s lack of depth was severely exposed in January of this season, so the opportunity to sign a Premier League-level player on a free transfer should not be totally dismissed.
