Everton FC Transfer News: The Japanese right-back is about to join the Premier League. According to the latest sources, Everton target Yukinari Sugawara will undergo a physical before completing a move to Southampton. Sugawara, 24, has been linked with a move to Everton after impressive performances for Japan and AZ Alkmaar in recent years. The Japan international, who has 13 caps since his debut in 2020, had the most assists of any Eredivise fullback last season.
After impressing in Holland, Everton will be disappointed to learn that Southampton are close to signing the defender. Fabrizio Romano confirmed it on X, writing: “Yukinari Sugawara is set to undergo medical today at Southampton as he joins #SaintsFC from AZ.” The Japanese fullback will sign the contract later today; the deal is done. He appeared to be a good prospect considering that his contract was slated to expire next summer, making him accessible for a reasonable fee – his Transfermarkt value is £10 million.
While his offensive statistics were great, there were some obvious defensive flaws that would have been highlighted in England. For example, he was in the fifth percentile for aerial duels won, which is extremely low, and he would have been targeted in the Premier League. He also placed in the 23rd percentile for defensive actions, indicating that he will be more effective in the future. Sean Dyche’s side conceded the fourth fewest goals in the Premier League last season, but right-back was a position that appeared doubtful. Nathan Patterson, Coleman, Ashley Young, and Godfrey were all used in that position throughout the campaign. Young and Coleman are veterans who are likely in their final season, while Patterson has yet to earn Dyche’s faith.
Sugawara would have been a good addition considering his skill set and ability to get forward and contribute in attack while also adding much-needed dynamism to the role. Ben Godfrey’s departure to Atalanta has raised further concerns about the situation, since it is unknown whether they will fill the right back position, especially because centre-back is a position that need reinforcement. The Toffees have already missed out on Jacob Greaves, who is poised to join Ipswich, and they only have Michael Keane and Mason Holgate as reserves, with the former having only one year left on his contract. Holgate has had two disastrous loans, and his future is uncertain, but it is becoming clear that additional defensive players are required.
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