Everton interest in Ukrainian Vitaliy Mykolenko heats up

Everton have set their sights on a first signing in January, as they have identified Ukrainian full-back, Vitaliy Mykolenko as a primary target.

Rafael Benitez is in need of cover in that defensive area, and Mykolenko could even be a candidate to start immediately, should he head to Merseyside, with Benitez choosing to drop French International Lucas Digne in recent matches.

The Ukrainian international, who faced in England in Euro 2020, plays mostly down the left-hand side of defence, but can play anywhere across the back line.

The 22-year-old has been playing for Dynamo Kiev, in his native home, since he was 11 and is a product of the clubs Youth School system. Since beginning his professional career, Mykolenko has made 132 club appearances, scoring seven goals at the time of writing.

Benitez has spent just £1.7 million since taking on the managerial position at Everton, and the Spaniard is hopeful to have more control when it comes to transfers, following the departure of director of football, Marcel Brands earlier this month.

The hope is that incoming Mykolenko can begin a boom that truly sets off the Benitez era, with the former Liverpool manager being under more and more scrutiny, with each result going under the microscope after a poor run of form.

It is rumoured that the player would join for around £18 million, with the player likely to be involved from the 1 January should the deal go through. Hopefully for Everton fans, he can help turn their fortunes around this season.