Everton are reportedly considering making a move for Winston Reid, but would signing the West Ham defender be such a smart decision?
On Saturday, we wrote about Everton‘s attempts to strengthen their defence. Despite conceding the sixth-fewest goals in the Premier League last season, Ronald Koeman is not the type of manager to rest on his laurels.
There are also a couple of other reasons the Blues would like to boost their back line. The first is the fact that although Ashley Williams is still extremely productive, he will turn 33 in August.
The other reason relates to the absence of Ramiro Funes Mori. Since suffering a torn meniscus, Funes Mori has had a couple of setbacks in his recovery and is expected to miss most of the 2016/17 season.
With these factors in mind, the latest speculation concerning Everton is not really a surprise. As reported by the Daily Mail‘s Simon Jones, they are apparently considering making a bid for Winston Reid.
The interest in Reid makes sense, given how he has grown over the years at West Ham United. His natural ability is matched by his work ethic and he has excellent positional sense.
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The 29-year-old is renowned for his leadership skills and has experience at the international level, having represented New Zealand on 20 occasions. With all this in mind, Jones suggests the Blues are prepared to offer £9 million for him.
Perhaps the only reason we would be hesitant to go down this road, relates to Reid’s durability – or lack thereof. He has battled with various injuries during his time in East London and has just returned to training, after surgery on his shin.
Apart from this, you have to wonder if the Hammers would even sell their best defender? At the very least, you imagine they would want more for a player who still has four years left on his current contract.
Overall, we certainly understand why Everton are interested in Reid. However, if they asking price goes much above £9 million, they will arguably be better off looking elsewhere to solidify their defence.
Next: Is Sigurdsson backing Swansea into a corner?
Where do you stand on the Blues’ reported interest in Reid? Would you sign him or not, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.