Everton must sell defender and hijack Napoli move for La Liga flyer Toffees were 'in talks' with in the summer
Everton tried in vain to sign a right-back during the summer which leaves an obvious transfer plan for when the January window opens.
The World Cup is a tantalising prospect at the end of the 2025/26 season which makes the January transfer window likely to be a busy one.
Players who have been selected out of recent loyalty probably won’t be afforded the same luxury in six-month's time and will be desperate for game time. It is a situation that Everton and David Moyes could take advantage of, particularly in the loan market with quality players throughout Europe looking for more minutes on the pitch. There will also be players in Everton’s squad who might be affected by this.
Selling Nathan Patterson makes sense for Everton
Several Toffees players are going to be involved in the World Cup play-offs, but there is one whose country has secured qualification and who has already sampled major tournaments.
Scotland’s dramatic win over Denmark saw them secure their first World Cup participation since France in 1998 with a squad that had individuals who are far from holding a regular place in the respective club sides. Nathan Patterson has been in that position before but he is now on the outside looking in.
Brentford’s Aaron Hickey is the undisputed first choice right-back for Scotland now, but there is nobody challenging him other than Kieran Tierney, who is a left-back by trade.
Tierney’s primary role is to provide cover for Andy Robertson or to play on the left of a back three. If Patterson can get fit, get a run of games and find even a semblance of form, he could well find himself on the plane to the States. Everton need a new right-back and selling Patterson, even for a cut-price fee, benefits everyone.
Who should Everton sign to replace Patterson
Before Patterson went under the knife for surgery to repair a hernia, Moyes appeared willing to give Patterson a chance.
“The main thing is for him to get himself in the best condition, fit, train well, we've not got loads of cover at right back, we've not got loads of players. Opportunities come around sometimes when you least expect it and you have to be ready for it and that's when you've got to show what you can do. So, I'd say that to all the players, be ready for when your opportunity comes and take it with both hands when you get it.”
Patterson has had too many chances already which is why, when the January transfer window opens, the summer interest in Juanlu Sanchez, who Everton were in talks with, should be made concrete.
In recent weeks, Napoli have emerged as potential suitors, however, they are looking for a backup right-back, whereas Everton need a starter. Jake O’Brien has performed admirably, but Sanchez is known for his attacking flair and provides the sort of threat that was hoped from Patterson. Selling the Scot to make room is a decision that was made in the summer, and it is one that will probably be made again.