OPINION
Everton boss Marco Silva was obviously unhappy with the options he had on the wings upon his arrival at Goodison Park over the summer, as he went out to snap up not one but two new wide men to improve his side’s attacking threat.
Brazilian duo Richarlison and Bernard joined existing options Theo Walcott and Ademola Lookman, both lightning fast down the flanks, to give the Portuguese boss some serious options up top – even if he has experimented using players in unfamiliar positions.
As such, some might say that the one area that Everton do not need to strengthen is out wide – but if rumours are to be believed then another could be on their way in the future.
Foot Mercato name the Toffees as one of a number of clubs who are in the hunt for red hot Belgian winger Thorgan Hazard – brother of Chelsea superstar Eden – after his dazzling form with Borussia Monchengladbach this season.
Seven goals and four assists is seriously fine form for the 25-year-old, but while clubs might be wanting to seal a January transfer, the report states that the German outfit will not let him leave in the winter but could sanction an exit next summer.
Richarlison and Bernard will not be going anywhere after their summer arrivals this year so it leaves Lookman and Walcott under pressure to save themselves in the first team, with eight months until the end of June and the start of the 2019 transfer window.
The next eight months could well determine who stays and who finds themselves booted out, regardless of whether a move for Hazard is sealed, for it seems another talented winger is on the cards for Silva.
If the Belgian continues his form, then the Toffees might well make him their first choice – either way, Walcott and Lookman should be feeling the heat already.