Alex Moreno during his time with Rayo Vallecano. (Getty Images)
According to Spanish media outlet AS (h/t Liverpool Echo), Everton are keeping close tabs on Real Betis left-back Alex Moreno.
The Spaniard has been an instant hit at Real Betis after arriving from Real Vallecano last summer. The 26-year-old has been impressive in his maiden stint with the Spanish outfit, making 25 appearances and assisting four times.
The report suggests that Moreno is a player Carlo Ancelotti admires and wants at. However, Everton already have two established left-backs – Lucas Digne and Leighton Baines at their disposal. Digne, due to his impressive displays last season has evolved into the Toffees’ first-choice left-back, overthrowing Baines.
Baines, on the other hand, is a Toffees legend, having played most of his career at Goodison Park. However, he is 35 already and way past his prime. The Englishman has not signed a new contract at Everton either, with his current deal set to expire in the summer.
Despite Digne’s good individual displays at the back, Everton has not had a fruitful campaign this season. They are currently struggling at 12th place in the table, with the side conceding as many as 46 goals from their 29 league appearances.
Baines, on the other hand, has spent most of his time on the sidelines as a backup option this season and has not had much game time as he used to enjoy in his previous spells.
So ushering in a player like the in-form Moreno will only do a world of good for a side like Everton, who have fared below average this season. However, what makes Moreno even more special is that he is a versatile player and is comfortable playing a wider role up front.
He has, on numerous occasions, played as a wide-man on the left flank during his stints with his previous sides. This, in turn, could be a great asset for Ancelotti, whose side has just two wide-forwards in Bernard and Alex Iwobi.
The two have not been particularly impressive and Moreno’s arrival would offer Ancelotti plenty of options not just in defence but also in the attack. The full-back can also give Digne a run for his money and give him competition for a starting contention if at all a deal works out.
Moreno’s versatility will offer manager Ancelotti plenty of options to choose from. Also, given the fact that Baines’ future remains an uncertainty, it is wise if Everton choose to land the in-form left-back sooner than later.
