Everton right-back search: the four names in the frame

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Everton right-back search: the four names in the frame

Last updated: 7 July 2026

Everton’s search for a new right-back has narrowed to four names: Ben White, Djed Spence, Guéla Doué and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The position has been a problem for two seasons, with Jake O’Brien filling in out of position and Seamus Coleman departing at the end of his contract.

David Moyes now has four contrasting options to choose from. Everton’s live transfer tracker carries the latest across all positions.

Ben White

White has fallen behind Jurrien Timber in Arsenal’s pecking order, restricted to close to 1,000 minutes across all competitions this season. At 28, he brings more top-level experience than the other three, having won the Premier League and reached a Champions League final. He can also play centre-back.

Pro: Premier League and Champions League experience; comfortable in multiple defensive positions.
Con: A serious knee ligament injury ruled him out for some of last season. Durability may be a concern.

Djed Spence

Spence has started for England at the World Cup, filling in at right-back after injuries to Reece James and Jarell Quansah, and has impressed with his pace and defensive discipline. Tottenham’s full-back positions look settled following Andy Robertson’s arrival and Pedro Porro’s new contract, which may open a route out for Spence.

Pro: In form, quick, and gaining international exposure by the game.
Con: Focused solely on the tournament for now. His value could keep rising the longer England stay in it.

Guéla Doué

Doué is the least known name of the four in England but has been on Everton’s list since earlier in the window. He is regarded as a longer-term option rather than an immediate fix.

Pro: Younger profile with room to develop; possible value if a fee can be agreed.
Con: Strasbourg’s valuation, reported at around £40m, may be more than Everton are willing to pay.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Everton remain involved despite West Ham’s asking price rising from an initial £10m to £15-20m, as the Hammers look to raise funds through squad sales. Of the four, this situation appears the most advanced.

Pro: Specialist right-back with Premier League pedigree; most direct fit for the position.
Con: Price has climbed, and Fulham, Brentford, Sunderland, Newcastle and Fenerbahce are all interested.

Where things stand…

None of the four moves is close. But with specific names now attached to the position across separate sources within days of each other, the search looks to have moved into a more active phase. This piece will be updated as it develops.

Gary is editor for ReadEverton. He has many years experience of sports writing behind him after deciding (belatedly) that the world of accountancy wasn't for him. His work has been featured on (among many others) BBC Sport and The Metro. He has written on many sports, but considers himself an expert in football and F1. When not writing and editing he likes to go to the cinema and sip a lovely cold pint of Guinness (not always at the same time).

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