Everton: 5 right backs to consider after failing to sign Denzel Dumfries

4. Fabien Centonze

Team: FC Metz

Age: 25

Nationality: French

Market Value: £7.2 million (Transfrmarkt)

Fabien Centonze is perhaps a name that Everton fans won’t be synonymous with. The Metz right back has been flying below the radar and continuously excelling at his game. Ligue 1 ‘s avid followers will know Centonze’s stellar rise since his move to Metz in 2019. In a pandemic curtailed 2019-20 season, the Frenchman put in top defensive performances being a reliable outlet for Metz.

In the ever evolving game, the latest batch of full backs are trained and moulded to increase their presence in attack and buildup play. This at times, often leaves defensive gaps. Centonze probably doesn’t offer the same attacking prowess as many other modern day full backs but what he offers defensively, has been hardly matched by any full back in the Ligue 1.

The Frenchman has been sound defensively, posting some of the best numbers across Europe in the past two seasons. In 2020-21 season, Centonze made 108 tackles, 86 blocks in Ligue 1, most by any player and made a total of 66 interceptions. What he lacks in attacking traits he compensates through his defensive skillsets.

The 25 year old is a reliable ball carrier too. Centonze averaged 6.87 progressive carries last season with handsome passing and crossing abilities. Most importantly, he could be available for a modest sum which could certainly draw Everton’s attention.