Yannick Carrasco in action for Atletico Madrid (Getty Images)
According to a report from Area Napoli (h/t Liverpool Echo) back in January last year, Everton had been linked with a move for Belgian winger Yannick Carrasco. The report claimed that the 27-year-old was looking for a return to Europe after spending time in the Chinese Super League and was specifically interested in testing his credentials in the Premier League.
However, Everton failed to firm up their interest in Carrasco and he eventually completed a return to his former club Atletico Madrid. The Toffees went on to enjoy a successful summer window with marquee signings like James Rodriguez, Allan, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Ben Godfrey coming through the door.
Everton can certainly do with more depth and quality in the wide attacking department. Rodriguez’s arrival has upgraded the club’s creative lines up top but the Colombian has had his fair share of struggles with injuries.
The Toffees also lack a quality alternative to Richarlison down the left, meaning more competition for places in the ranks is necessary heading into a hectic second half of the campaign.
With Bernard out of favour and poised for an exit and the likes of Theo Walcott and Moise Kean currently out on loan, Ancelotti should find some fresh additions to his forward line during the mid-season trading period. Having said that, reigniting interest in Yannick Carrasco would help Everton land a top-quality player with proven pedigree in some of the elite leagues across the continent.
Everton are very much in the mix for a top-six finish in the Premier League after a fruitful first half of the campaign. However, with the competition for the European spots expected to heat up in the coming months, the Toffees need to have adequate depth in their squad to go toe-to-toe with their rivals.
Being a three-time Champions League-winning manager, Ancelotti would definitely be aware of the importance of having more than one quality player in each position.
That said, Yannick Carrasco would be a useful addition to Everton’s squad. The Belgian’s inclusion would offer Ancelotti some real depth and quality out wide. With several years remaining in his prime at 27, the Toffees should not hesitate to splash the cash on the Atletico Madrid star this month.