Everton have been a team in transition for good ever since Ronald Koeman took the charges of the club, and there are no two ways about the same. Having finished 7th in the league table last season, the former Southampton manager must be craving for a place in the Champions League in the upcoming campaign and is thus carving top notch side by beefing up the quality signings this summer.
Having already acquired the likes of Wayne Rooney, Jordan Pickford, Michael Keane, Henry Onyekuru and Davy Klaassen, Koeman is looking for a central defender of some repute. Reports have surfaced that the Toffees have put Lazio’s defender Wesley Hoedt on their radar, owing to Ramiro Funes Mori’s knee surgery which is likely to keep him out for up to nine months.
The Argentine international picked up the injury whilst on international duty for La Albiceleste in March and underwent surgery last month.
In a scenario like this, bringing someone like Hoedt to Goodison Park will make complete sense to ensure that they do not lack depth in any department.
What about Hoedt?
Hoedt emerged through the youth ranks of HVV Hollandia and AZ Alkmaar and was eventually promoted to the senior side of the latter.
Lazio came for his signature a couple of seasons ago and his stocks have upped ever since his move to the ranks of the Eagles. In fact, his rise to prominence gave him the chance to represent his national side Netherlands as well.
Hoedt is a player with exceptional versatility and it is this trait of his which makes him an appealing commodity for any top quality side. Apart from centre-back, the Dutch international is capable enough to play as a fullback as well as a central defensive midfielder. He’ll inject a lot of quality and mettle to the defensive aspect of Koeman’s side. He is well-built, strong in the air and has shown his resilience in the Italian top division already.
Last season, he accumulated 23 appearances to his name for Lazio, where he registered 1.3 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, 4.5 clearances and 0.4 blocks per game on an average. Further, he also banged in 2 goals and has indeed proved to be a notable asset for the White and Blues.
It would be interesting to see the amount of money which Everton are ready to dish out to sign him, but if the deal manages to cross the line, it could be a huge addition to the Blues’ ranks for the upcoming season.
Statistics Credits: Whoscored
