Report: Everton now in talks for £10m player, he does one thing much better than Michael Keane

Everton have entered into talks over a deal for Borussia Monchengladbach defender Nico Elvedi.

As reported by gianlucadimarzio.com, Everton have made contact with German side Borussia Monchengladbach to try and strike a deal for centre-back Nico Elvedi.

Bringing in additional attacking firepower has been a priority for Everton so far this summer. Arnaut Danjuma and Jack Harrison have been brought to Goodison Park, and a deal for Udinese striker Beto seems close.

The Toffees now seem content to turn their attentions towards bolstering their back line. Improvements are certainly needed at both ends of the pitch on Merseyside, and Sean Dyche appears to recognise these frailties in his squad.

The form of Michael Keane and James Tarkowski in the heart of the Everton defence has been poor, and whilst there are high hopes that Jarrad Branthwaite can shine this season, more quality is needed. Elvedi may well be the solution for Everton.

Elvedi is an assured and reliable defender. The 26-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for Borussia Monchengladbach for the last eight seasons, and has racked up 230 Bundesliga appearances in that time. He is also an international stalwart, having been capped 47 times by Switzerland.

Elvedi is also excellent on the ball. According to FBRef stats, he has an average pass completion rating of 91.2%, putting him in the 94th percentile for players in his position. By contrast, FBRef credit Keane with just a 71.9% pass completion rate, which puts him in the bottom 2% of players in his position. Elvedi represent a major upgrade in this regard which could transform how Everton build up attacks.

Everton can overtake Wolves to land Elvedi

The 6’2” centre-back, who can also play at right-back if required, would be a fine addition to Dyche’s squad. The Toffees may find that they face a challenger for his signature, though, as Wolves were prepared to pay £8 million for Elvedi earlier this summer, according to BILD. There’s a chance that they return to the table for the player before the transfer window closes. ‘Gladbach, though, want around £10 million, as per Rheinische Post.

If Everton can snap up Elvedi for a fee around that figure then it would represent great business for the club, who are in dire need of some positive news after making such a dismal start to their season on the pitch.