With Ramiro Funes Mori set to spend a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Everton will likely have to delve back into the transfer market to sign a left-sided defender.
Things have gone very well for Everton recently – in fact, maybe a little too well. As such, the footballing Gods decided it was time for them to receive a bit of bad news.
As per a report from The Times‘ Paul Joyce, Ramiro Funes Mori has suffered a setback in his recovery. He has been out of action since March, when he suffered a torn meniscus, while on international duty for Argentina.
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Before his injury, Funes Mori had made 26 appearances during Ronald Koeman’s first season in charge, in central defence. This latest news is a big blow for both the individual and the team, as he was set to play a bigger role in the new season.
The 26-year old first joined Everton in September 2015, for £9.5 million. In his first season on Merseyside, he made 37 total appearances and quickly earned a reputation as a physical, no-nonsense player, who was strong in the air. (He also added five goals in all competitions.)
At this stage, it is unclear exactly how much longer Funes Mori will be out of action. However, it’s long enough that Joyce writes Everton are looking to sign a left-sided defender.
In this respect, the recent report linking the Blues to a late attempt to “steal” Jairo Riedewald from Crystal Palace, now makes more sense. And like Funes Mori, the Ajax’s defender’s versatility allows him to also play at left back.
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With Funes Mori on the sidelines for a while, are you on board with Everton making a move for Riedewald? Or is there anyone else you have in mind, to provide cover on the left side of defence? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.