Everton Set to Address Right-Back Issue in January

With the 1-1 draw against West Ham United highlighting Everton’s ongoing defensive struggles, David Moyes is reportedly pushing for a January solution to strengthen the right-back position. Since returning to Goodison Park, Jake O’Brien has been filling in at right-back despite being a natural centre-back. While O’Brien has shown promise, his defensive lapses were exposed when Malick Diouf’s run set up Jarrod Bowen’s equaliser, underlining Everton’s failure to recruit a specialist right-back in the summer.

Moyes had targeted Fulham’s Kenny Tete and also considered Kyle Walker-Peters and veteran Kyle Walker, but these moves did not materialise. The club is now exploring Juanlu Sanchez from Sevilla and other potential options, backed by the Friedkin Group, aiming to reinforce the squad for a push toward European qualification. Nathan Patterson’s future is uncertain, with a previous loan to Sevilla falling through due to the club’s inability to line up a replacement.

Despite the setback, Everton are ninth in the Premier League, unbeaten at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium, and level on points with five other clubs, including Chelsea. Moyes remains focused on steady progress, stressing patience while addressing long-standing squad weaknesses. A reliable right-back in January could balance the defence, boost attacking options, and strengthen Everton’s push for Europe.