Everton could see substantial changes to their backline this summer. Yerry Mina has left the club and Conor Coady’s loan hasn’t been converted to a permanent deal. With a flurry of changes in the central defence, it is natural for Everton to be linked with a centre back as Juventus defender Koni De Winter has been associated with a move to Goodison Park.
Mina was in the final year of his contract and before the final game of the 2022-23 season, made it public that he would leave the club. Coady was signed in 2022 summer transfer window on a loan deal with an option to buy for £4.5 million. The Toffees did not exercise their buy option as the Englishman returned to the Wolves. Mason Holgate has been linked with an exit this summer.
Newly promoted Sheffield United were said to be in advanced talks to sign Holgate on loan for the 2023-24 season. Even Nottingham Forest had been credited with an interest for the Englishman. The futures of Holgate and Ben Godfrey remain in doubt as the Toffees look to trim the squad.
Everton will not be able to sign Koni De Winter
If Holgate does leave EFC, Sean Dyche will be left with James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Jarrad Branthwaite and Godfrey as central defence options. It looks, the Toffees could look for another centre back as Juventus defender De Winter remains on EFC’s list.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, there are four clubs interested in De Winter. Everton, Stade de Reims, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Monchengladbach have shown interest. However, there are chances that the 21 year old could stay at Juventus. According to Sport Witness, De Winter is now closer to staying at Juventus than leaving Turin. De Winter has joined the Juventus squad in the pre-season tour.
Max Allegri’s idea it to let the Belgian remain a part of the first team and gain experience. Leonard Bonucci could leave the Old Lady and in case of his departure, De Winter’s availability will be important for Juventus. The final decision is being made but it is almost certain that Everton will not have their hands on the 21 year old.
The Merseysiders need an astute partner for Tarkowski. Keane and Godfrey have been decent but have been very inconsistent. Branthwaite will be assessed during pre-season and a decision will be made over his future. As things stand, Everton will not be able to sign De Winter.
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