Everton considering a move for Lazio’s Wesley Hoedt

Ronald Koeman is seriously contemplating a move for centre back Wesley Hoedt, but can the Dutch international help Everton?

With another month to go in the summer transfer window, Everton are still on the lookout for one more defender to compliment their current options. As you’d expect, they’ve already been linked to a whole host of options.

However, as the countdown continues to August 31, who — if anyone — will end up moving to the blue half of Merseyside? If the latest speculation is to be believed, the answer may be found in Italy.

As per a report from the Echo‘s Phil Kirkbride, Everton are apparently weighing up a move for Lazio’s Wesley Hoedt. Kirkbride points out that as a left-sided defender, Hoedt would provide the perfect cover for Ramiro Funes Mori, who will miss most, if not all, of the upcoming season.

In truth, the Blues’ interest in the centre back makes a lot of sense. Having recently become a full international for the Dutch first team, fellow native Ronald Koeman is very familiar with him.

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Another reason making a move for Hoedt adds up, is down to his versatility. If need be, he is also capable of playing at left back and as a defensive central midfielder.

The 23-year-old has only recently come onto the mainstream radar, after an excellent couple of campaigns in Italy. He has averaged nearly five tackles/interceptions per game during his time with Lazio, and even added three goals last season.

Lazio actually signed Hoedt on a free transfer, after he left AZ Alkmaar. However, with two years remaining on his contract, it will be interesting to find out how much the Toffees are prepared to pay, assuming the young talent’s current club even want to let him leave.

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Are you familiar with Hoedt? If so, what’s your opinion of him? More specifically, do you see him being a good addition to Koeman’s squad? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.