---
title: "Everton interest in Middlesbough duo proves Brands knows what they need [Opinion]"
canonical: "https://readeverton.com/everton-transfer-interest-spence-tavernier-middlesbrough-brands/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Alex Jones"
section: "Everton News"
published: "2021-01-12T07:00:00Z"
modified: "2021-01-12T07:00:00Z"
---

# Everton interest in Middlesbough duo proves Brands knows what they need \[Opinion\]

Everton may well have played their hand in the transfer market amid the latest claims that the Toffees are eyeing up an exciting double swoop from Middlesbrough.

According to [TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/news/exclusive-boro-decision-prem-quartet-eye-tavernier), Everton are interested in both Marcus Tavernier and Djed Spence, who have excelled for Neil Warnock’s promotion-pushing side this season.

Tavernier, whose Rangers-starring brother James has [also been linked](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9027619/What-does-James-Tavernier-need-recognised-Premier-League.html) with a move to Goodison Park, is an England youth international and has caught the eye with his offensive displays on the wing.

[TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/news/exclusive-boro-decision-prem-quartet-eye-tavernier) indicated that Everton are joined by Leicester and Wolves in registering their interest. Tavernier’s hometown club Leeds are also said to be keeping tabs on him.

However, the 21-year-old recently [penned a long-term deal](https://www.teamtalk.com/news/exclusive-middlesbrough-star-tavernier-all-set-to-sign-new-contract) which should alleviate any pressure to sell, although it is noted that his situation could change if a suitable bid is presented to Middlesbrough.

Spence is in a similar situation. The 20-year-old has been [tipped](https://www.teamtalk.com/news/exclusive-boro-decision-prem-quartet-eye-tavernier) to be called up to the England under-21 squad and is tied down to a new deal after breaking into the ‘Boro first team last season.

### READ EVERTON VERDICT

The most exciting part of these rumours is their respective attributes. Both are young, home-grown and pacey talents who can play on the wing (Tavernier) and at right-back (Spence).

It may well be that the links indicate the sorts of positions where club wants to strengthen – and the types of players to fill those roles.

The summer’s recruitment theme was all about experience. None of the [major signings](https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/fc-everton/transfers/verein/29) in Allan, Abdoulaye Doucoure and James Rodriguez were more than a few years off 30 and they boast formidable experience in Europe’s top leagues.

However, with the likes of [Seamus Coleman](https://readeverton.com/2021/01/08/possible-13-5m-everton-deal-for-zeki-celik-should-be-no-brainer-opinion/) ageing, it is inevitable that the club will be working hard to identify suitable [successors.](https://readeverton.com/2021/01/08/possible-13-5m-everton-deal-for-zeki-celik-should-be-no-brainer-opinion/)

Herein lies the real positive: the links confirm Marcel Brands’ forward-thinking approach and ability to identify key objectives suitably. Executing business is the key issue which remains to be seen, but the update delivers real cause for optimism.