Lutsharel Geertruida 'ticks a lot of boxes' as Sunderland star passes Everton audition
Lutsharel Geertruida did his chances of joining Everton no harm following Sunderland's 3-1 win, sources have told Football Insider.
It is understood that the Toffees are admirers of the 25-year-old defender, who is capable of playing anywhere across the back line, as well as a defensive midfielder.
Football Insider already revealed that right-back is a priority position for David Moyes this summer, and while Geertruida is set to return to RB Leipzig, the Bundesliga club could sell for £20million.
Everton's transfer chiefs will be working overtime this summer, and with the Dutchman keen to stay in the Premier League, the Toffees will have a battle on their hands to secure his signature.
Lutsharel Geertruida easily shut down Everton's Iliman Ndiaye
It is unlikely to be an easy battle for the Merseysiders to win this summer, but having seen first-hand what Geertruida could bring to the team, David Moyes could push for him to fill the right-back position.
During the Black Cats' 3-1 win at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, 17 May, the full-back was an absolute unit, stopping star winger Iliman Ndiaye dead in his tracks on the left flank.
Very few in the Premier League have been able to contain the Senegalese international from causing havoc on the wing, having most recently done so against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in a 3-3 draw.
| Lutsharel Geertruida vs Everton | Stats [FotMob] |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Touches | 65 |
| Passing accuracy | 92% (48/52) |
| Accurate long balls | 100% (2/2) |
| Tackles | 2 |
| Recoveries | 7 |
| Ground duels won | 100% (3/3) |
| Aerial duels won | 100% (2/2) |
Moyes still have a chance of securing European football for next season, which could help persuade the RB Leipzig loanee to choose the Toffees over several other suitors over the coming weeks.
David Moyes is ready for a defensive revamp this summer
James Tarkowski and Michael Keane have been the trusted duo in the centre of defence, with Jarrad Branthwaite sidelined yet again and Jake O'Brien needed at right-back.
That is exactly why Everton are considering a move for John Stones on a free transfer following his exit from Man City, with Nathan Ake also linked with a switch to Merseyside this summer.
With Seamus Coleman moving on and Nathan Patterson nowhere near the expected level, a new full-back should be near the top of the list of priorities. Geertruida has proven himself immensely this term.
Some supporters are baffled by RB Leipzig's stance on his future, but their miss could be Everton's gain ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.