Everton ace once called a ‘diamond’ finally set for exit doors as solution found for ‘problematic’ position
David Moyes must address several areas of the squad if Everton are to experience a successful second half of the 2025-26 campaign.
Despite a bright few opening games of the season, Everton’s 1-1 draw with Wolves left them 12th in the Premier League table, before then being knocked out of the FA Cup by Sunderland.
The Toffees now only have league football to focus on, but even so, the squad is currently so diminished, especially after Michael Keane’s ban was upheld, and Jack Grealish is also suspended.
One of the biggest problem areas has been the striker position, with both Beto and Thierno Barry missing their spot-kicks against the Black Cats on Saturday, 10 January.
David Moyes must address the right-back spot
However, with only a matter of days before AFCON ends, which means the return of Iliman Ndiaye, and Barry certainly making improvements in his game, the focus should be elsewhere on the pitch.
Defenders currently sidelined with injury are Jarrad Branthwaite and Seamus Coleman, but for a nice change, Nathan Patterson remains available, making his fourth appearance of the season this weekend.
Since arriving from Rangers in January 2022, the now-24-year-old has struggled immensely with injuries, often finding himself on the treatment table for long spells at a time.
Despite this, he still managed to earn rave reviews from Danny Murphy, who labelled him a “diamond” [Football Scotland].
With Patterson and Coleman normally in the same boat when it comes to setbacks, the Toffees should have a clear target for the rest of the January transfer window, and it would appear they do.
Arsenal star Ben White emerges on Everton’s radar
Football Insider understands that Everton are interested in Arsenal’s Ben White, hoping to fix a “problematic” area of the squad, which has plagued managers for several seasons.
Due to injury, the full-back has drifted down Mikel Arteta‘s pecking order, with Jurrien Timber now the preferred right-back at the Emirates Stadium, and it is no surprise really.
Since returning to the fray, the 28-year-old has racked up 13 appearances across all competitions in 2025-26, and even with an assist against Brentford last month, he remains second choice.
Moyes could give him a brand-new home as soon as the current transfer window, and he would be a huge upgrade on Patterson, especially now that he is no longer struggling with injury setbacks.