Max Aarons has been identified as a potential target for Everton as Rafa Benitez eyes defensive reinforcements.
According to 90 Min, Everton are in the market for a new right-back. It appears new coach Rafa Benitez is determined to improve his defensive options, with Max Aarons being identified as one of two potential targets.
The Norwich City full-back is expected to leave the club in the summer but is likely to cost around £25 million. The Canaries have already cashed in one of their other key players in Emiliano Buendia earlier, with the Argentine international joining Aston Villa.
Everton’s interest in Aarons stems from the club’s lack of quality options at right-back. Following the decline of Seamus Coleman, previous coach Carlo Ancelotti was forced to use Mason Holgate in that position, while Jonjoe Kenny failed to prove his mettle at Goodison Park, ultimately being forced to move to Celtic on loan.
The former Schalke ace has returned to Everton in the summer but was linked with a shock switch to Arsenal. Incidentally, the Gunners are also among the clubs interested in the services of Aarons, as Mikel Arteta looks to find a long-term replacement for Hector Bellerin.
It is hardly surprising either, as Aarons has quietly established himself as one of the up and coming English talents in the Premier League. With 130 competitive appearances to his name, the 21-year-old is fairly experienced, with 36 of those matches coming in the top-flight.
Aarons’ ability to bombard down the flank with his marauding runs forward makes him an attractive option for Rafa Benitez, who often switches to a wing-back setup. The youngster also has the defensive positioning and the awareness required to thrive under the leadership of the Spanish tactician.
However, Everton are set to face stiff competition from other English clubs in the pursuit of Aarons. As mentioned earlier, Arsenal are in the market for a new right-back and are perhaps just waiting to sanction the sale of Bellerin, who is courted by Inter Milan.
In addition to Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on the services of Aarons. However, it is fair to point out that Everton are exploring other options, including Denzel Dumfries. The PSV Eindhoven star made quite an impression at Euro 2020, although the Toffees might face stiff competition from Real Madrid, with their ex-manager Ancelotti keen on acquiring him next season.
