Everton have registered their interest in signing Georgios Vagiannidis from Sporting CP, according to reports in Portugal. The Toffees are seeking to bolster their right-back options this summer and have revisited their interest in the 24-year-old, who they previously tracked when he was at Panathinaikos.
Vagiannidis joined Sporting last year for a fee of around €13million (£11.3m / $15.2m) but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter in Lisbon, making only 11 league appearances. Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that the player is seeking more consistent playing time, alerting Everton to his potential availability.
Everton’s pursuit of a new right-back has been intensified by Seamus Coleman’s departure from the club. Manager David Moyes is also considering the future of Nathan Patterson, with a potential exit possible if suitable reinforcements are secured. Jake O’Brien has filled the role this season, but is naturally a centre-back, and a dedicated right-back signing would allow him to move into his preferred position.
A Bola claims that Sporting would be willing to part with Vagiannidis for a fee of just €10million (£8.6m / $11.7m), a reduction from the amount they paid Panathinaikos last summer. Everton are reportedly conducting due diligence on multiple targets, with Vagiannidis’s relatively low asking price making him an attractive option. The club are also considering a move for West Ham’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who could be available for a similar fee following West Ham’s relegation to the Championship. Tottenham, Newcastle, Fulham and Sunderland have also expressed interest in Wan-Bissaka, potentially creating competition for Everton.
Exploratory talks were also held with Kieran Trippier regarding a potential free transfer, but Everton ultimately decided against pursuing the Newcastle United player, who has since joined Wolves. The addition of Vagiannidis, or another right-back, would provide competition and depth in a position that has become a priority for Moyes ahead of the new season. Securing a new player in this position could also allow for tactical flexibility within the squad.
