Rangers youngster Nathan Patterson would be an excellent signing for Everton, according to BBC Radio pundit Noel Whelan.
The Lowdown: Patterson linked with Everton move
Rafael Benitez may be eyeing up new signings in the January transfer window, and one player that the Blues have been linked with signing is Patterson. The right-back has been limited to just two Scottish Premiership starts for Rangers this season, with James Tavernier still very much first-choice at Ibrox in that role.
It could be that a move away from Glasgow makes sense for the 20-year-old in order to kick on in his career and enjoy a fresh challenge elsewhere.
The Latest: Whelan talks up Patterson links
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan claimed that the youngster would be a strong addition for Everton, particularly at a time when Seamus Coleman could need replacing, and has backed the Toffees to complete a move for the youngster. He said:
“He’d be a shrewd signing for Everton in January, 100%. Obviously we know that Seamus Coleman isn’t getting any younger in that right-back spot. There’s also an opportunity for him on the left with the Lucas Digne situation, he could fill in there.
“He’s played there for Rangers recently. Even though he’s a top talent, it’s bound to be hard to get in the side ahead of the skipper, James Tavernier.
“We’ve seen him really impress for Scotland as well and he’s shown he can be a brilliant attacking talent as well on international duty. From what I know, he’s got a lot of potential.”
The Verdict: Hugely exciting prospect
While Patterson’s lack of playing time may suggest otherwise, he is a huge prospect who has been described as ‘amazing’ by Southampton and Scotland striker Che Adams.
He has averaged a highly impressive three tackles per game in the Europa League this season – Allan is top of the pile for Everton in the Premier League, but his average of 2.9 is still inferior to Patterson’s.
A freshness needs to be added to Benitez’s squad, both in January and in the summer, and the Scottish starlet is someone who could inject just that, not least with the Toffees light on genuine full-back options.
In other news, some Everton fans are fuming after one update emerged. Read more here.