Everton looking to boost left back position with Patrick van Aanholt

Everton are reportedly considering a move for Crystal Palace defender Patrick van Aanholt, but would he represent a smart addition?

Everton have been on an excellent run of results, since Sam Allardyce was announced as their new manager. However, there’s still a lot of work to do.

This is something Allardyce himself is well aware of. Among the tasks which lay ahead, include improving the depth of the squad, especially with a lengthy list of players still to return from injury.

One position in particular which needs urgent attention is left back, where Leighton Baines is currently out with a calf injury. His place has been taken by an out of position Cuco Martina, which quite simply isn’t good enough.

In fact, even when Baines is fit enough to return, Everton still need some depth. Regardless of his impressive durability, even the 33-year-old can’t go on forever.

As such, the latest speculation makes sense. As per Peter O’Rourke of ESPN FC, the Blues are apparently interested in Patrick van Aanholt.

This interest comes as little surprise, given the history between van Aanholt and Allardyce. The duo have worked together on two previous occasions, at Sunderland and Crystal Palace.

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Talking of Crystal Palace, part of the reason van Aanholt is theoretically available, is his lack of first team action for the Eagles. He has been compromised by a hamstring injury and fallen out of favour under Roy Hodgson.

You could ask why Everton would even want to sign a player who is unable to play regularly for a struggling side? However, Allardyce is much better-placed to evaluate the merits of bringing him in.

In any event, it’s not as if van Aanholt doesn’t have talent. He came up through Chelsea’s youth ranks, is versatile and has experience at the full international level with the Netherlands.

However, one other factor to consider is whether Crystal Palace would even let the 27-year-old leave. He is under contract for another three and a half years and the Eagles need all the help they can get for their fight against relegation.

Next: Allardyce looking at a reunion with The Tank

What’s your opinion of van Aanholt? Do you believe he would be a worthy successor to Baines at Everton? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.