Sources: Everton have high hopes for Adam Aznou as recall plan revealed

Everton still have hope that young left-back Adam Aznou can grow into a genuine first-team player, sources have told Football Insider.

The Toffees have no intention of selling the Morocco international when he returns from his loan spell with Malaga, as they have a lack of cover at left-back.

David Moyes and Co. are not yet ready to "write off" the 20-year-old, and hope that he will be ready to take up a first-team place next season.

Sources say that Everton even now "regret" letting Aznou head out on loan, after the injury to Vitaliy Mykolenko has left them without a recognised left-back in the squad.

They have been short in the full-back positions all season, but getting regular senior football for Aznou was seen as the priority.

He has endured a difficult start with Malaga, but made his first appearance for them when he came on as a second-half substitute in their 1-1 draw with Espanyol last week.

Everton to watch Adam Aznou situation closely

Aznou arrived at Everton with a strong reputation behind him when he joined from Bayern Munich back in 2025.

The starlet is tipped to have a huge future ahead of him, but the Merseysiders have yet to truly see that unfold so far.

Aznou made just one competitive appearance at senior level last season and was unable to convince Moyes to trust him with a regular role.

However, Everton still have high hopes for the defender moving forward and are sure to keep a close eye on his development this season.

Aznou is set to gain exposure to a top European league in La Liga, and the hope at his parent club is that it will thrust him into the picture for Moyes next summer.

Everton will be desperate to see him get regular minutes at Malaga as the campaign unfolds, but they may have to rethink if they don't get what they want.

Everton exploring January defender signing

Football Insider revealed on Monday that Moyes is already pushing Everton to sign a new left-back ahead of the January transfer window,

Mykolenko's injury forced Jarrad Branthwaite to deputise on the left side of the backline last weekend, but he is seen as being too important at centre-back to continue in that role.

Sources say that the addition of a new left-back is a top priority for Moyes and the recruitment team this winter to cover for the lack of depth.

That could see another new face arrive above Aznou in the pecking order, making it even harder for him to break through long-term.