EVERTON TEAM ASSESSMENT, PART 6: Left Back & Center Back Targets

Part 6 of The Blue Frontier's 2024–25 Everton squad assessment series takes on a big brief: left backs, center backs, and all the latest transfer noise. PLUS a new theme song to set the tone (thanks to Steve Barkwill and Laura Lockwood, links below!) James, Shan, and Ryan kick things off with reactions to the kit reveal (Stake-free at last), the Seamus Coleman extension, and updates on Jarrad Branthwaite's looming five-year deal and Gana Gueye's still-pending renewal. From there, the crew dives into positional analysis, blending Wyscout data, scouting models, and sharp tactical logic to evaluate what Everton really need in defense. While LB and CB are both positions of need, the trio consider that Everton may want to allocate more funds to other positions and have adjusted accordingly. They weigh up Vitalii Mykolenko's year, question the resource allocation for rumored signings like Thierno Barry, and explore wide-ranging fullback options—from free agents and relegated bargains to promising South American talents like Vanderlan and Esquivel. Also discussed: Galatasaray's Jelleur, Southampton's Wellington, and MLS alumnus John Tolkin. And as usual, light on the agendas and intentional hot takes, heavy on different ideas, out of the box thinking, and surprising names that make a lot more sense than the silly season rumor mill.    If you would like to find a group of guys that attempt to keep it civil – with an exception or two in this episode - and realistic, we encourage you to give it a listen.   LINKS: https://linktr.ee/thebluefrontier Get in touch:  [email protected]   Steve Barkwill Composition: https://stevebarkwill.com  Laura Lockwood (Lockwood Voices): https://www.lockwoodvoices.com/