Everton’s search for a left-back takes a new twist

Everton have been linked with a surprise move for former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra - though West Ham are expected to beat the Toffees to his signature.

Evra is a free agent after his Marseille contract was cancelled in November for kicking a fan before a Europa League match.

The 36-year-old is currently serving a ban from UEFA competitions until June for that incident but is able to play domestically.

Sky Sports claim that Everton are interested in signing the former France international but Evra favours a move to London.

The full-back has reportedly been spotted at West Ham’s training ground and is expected to finalise a deal on Wednesday.

The move will see Evra reunited with manager David Moyes, who he briefly worked with at Man Utd during the 2013-14 season.

I doubt Evertonians will be too disappointed at missing out on Evra. He was a fine player in his day but at 36 is way past his prime and comes loaded with baggage following his unhappy spell at Marseille.

The team’s hunt for a left-back is well known, but questions will again be asked if Evra is all Steve Walsh and the scouting team can come up with, even as a short-term option.

Everton have plenty to do in order to correct the failed transfer strategy of last summer, but Evra isn’t the way to go about it.