Everton are working hard behind the scenes to upgrade and reinforce the squad that has been often criticized as mediocre. In recent days, Everton had been linked to Dynamo Kyiv left back Vitaliy Mykolenko and now there seems to be a big breakthrough in the chase.
Everton are possibly hunting for a new left back as relations between Rafa Benitez and Lucas Digne seem to strain with each passing day. The duo had an argument and then a supposed fallout which has seen the Frenchman get excluded from the match day squad for two match days. The 28 year old also missed the Chelsea game due to illness and is now attracting a lot of interest from clubs across Europe.
Juventus are said to be exploring their options as they contemplate the contract of Alex Sandro whose deal runs out in 2023. Even Chelsea are an interested party and are reportedly offering a loan with an option to buy in the summer for £21.3 million.
With the January transfer window inching closer and so signs of restoration of trust between Benitez and Digne, the former Barcelona man could be on the transfer list in January. The Toffees are already looking at left backs and Mykolenko is rumoured to be heading to Merseyside.
Everton eye Vitaliy Mykolenko
According to Sky Sports, Mykolenko is a target for Everton and Dynamo Kyiv manager Mircea Lucescu has touted Everton as the youngster’s next destination. The Ukrainian had also been linked with a move to Serie A with Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma making a £15 million bid but it seems the Toffees are set to beat the Giallorossi. Kyiv manager Lucescu has deemed this a big transfer and Mykolenko’s transfer will set an example.
"Mykolenko is going to Everton. He will be the first big transfer out of Dynamo since (Andriy) Yarmolenko. He’s a young player and he should be an example to others. It’s very important to allow players to fulfil their potential and give them chances to fulfil them. (via Sky Sports)"
The Royal Blues are expected to spread the transfer fees across the Ukrainian’s contract instead of paying the entire fees upfront.
Will Vitaliy Mykolenko replace Digne?