Everton are considering a move for Calum Chambers in the January window in a cut-price deal as Rafael Benitez eyes a right-back.
According to The Sun, Everton manager Rafael Benitez might look to Calum Chambers to solve his team’s problems at right-back. The Toffees could make a reasonable offer to Arsenal to try and sign the unwanted England international, who has an expiring contract at the Emirates.
Calum Chambers finished last season strongly as Arsenal’s first-choice right-back after Mikel Arteta heavily rotated players in the position throughout the season. Cedric Soares and Hector Bellerin also featured there, but it was Chambers who looked like the correct fit towards the backend of the campaign.
The ex-Southampton man started the current season as the first choice, although the team’s collective display in the opening three games prompted Arteta to bring in Takehiro Tomiyasu from Bologna. The Japan international has slotted right into the starting XI and is yet to lose a game in Arsenal colours.
Tomiyasu’s presence has relegated Cedric and Chambers to being options in cup games, wherein the Portuguese is ahead of the Englishman. With his contract with the Gunners expiring in 2022, the club might consider the prospect of offloading him for some fee in January.
With playing time looking less likely at the Emirates, Chambers, too, might look to move away from the club in the winter transfer window. He has some admirers within the Premier League, while Roma are also exploring the idea of signing him. While Jose Mourinho convinced Tammy Abraham in the summer over a move to Italy, Chambers may prefer to stay in the Premier League.
Everton are reportedly interested in the versatile defender as Rafael Benitez remains desperate to add cover and competition for Seamus Coleman. The veteran Toffees star has struggled plenty with injuries since the second half of last season, and it has come to affect his performances on the pitch.
Chambers represents a solid option, experienced in the Premier League and one who could slot in straight away in the Spaniard’s plans. Benitez was somewhat cash strapped in the summer window, although reports suggest he might be given money to spend in the next window.
In recent weeks, defensive issues have plagued Everton, with the team in a difficult situation heading into Matchday 12. A signing like Chambers will be helpful, as the defender can play right-back, centre-back and even defensive midfield, as seen during his time at Fulham a few seasons ago.
Arsenal have plenty of options at right-back, with even Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who Everton chased during the summer, representing a reliable option if Tomiyasu is injured or unavailable. The report suggests a bid of £5 million could be considered by the Gunners, who could end up losing Chambers on a free transfer when the season ends.
Chambers could be a useful signing for Everton and could provide a bit of stability to their shaky backline. It remains to be seen how much the Toffees are willing to offer, although a move looks more than possible in the winter window.
