Why Everton should make a move for Lucas Veríssimo in the summer
According to Brazilian outlet Lance (h/t The Daily Post), Everton were interested in signing Santos defender Lucas Veríssimo during the January transfer window. However, no deal materialized and the defender has since stayed put at Santos.
Lucas Veríssimo, 24, enjoyed a solid season with Santos, racking up 33 league appearances. He has bagged two goals and an assist but also picked up two red cards in the Brazilian Serie A.
The Toffees have sprung to life under new manager Carlo Ancelotti after what was seemingly a poor season. Interim head Duncan Ferguson took over from sacked manager Marco Silva before Ancelotti was appointed in charge. They currently lie ninth in the table, just three points off top-six after a brilliant 3-2 comeback victory against Watford over the weekend.
Everton signed just Jarrad Branthwaite in January but during the summer, the Italian tactician should prioritize reinforcing the defence since Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate and Michael Keane are the only options in that position.
Defensive midfielder Jean Philippe-Gbamin can operate as a centre-back when required but he has had a forgettable debut campaign at Goodison Park so far due to an injury. In fact, he has suffered a setback in his recovery from a damaged right quadricep.
Due to a lack of depth in central defence, Ancelotti must address the issue before next season. To put things simply, he should reignite his interest in Lucas Veríssimo.
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At just 24, Veríssimo has ample experience of playing in the Brazilian top-flight, making 100 appearances for Santos so far. The Brazilian is a quality defender and would add some much-needed depth to Everton’s backline next season. Also, he would bring competition for the likes of Mina, Holgate and Keane, considering they have leaked 37 goals in 25 league games.
Verdict
Veríssimo is a talented defender and Everton would be wise to recruit him before the 2020/21 season starts.
