Could Everton be in for German central defender?

German media outlet Bild seems to think Everton are in for Hoffenheim’s central defender Kevin Vogt. While certainly a position that the Blues need to upgrade with fossils Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams headed closer to the pension line every day, it doesn’t address the glaring need at left back. Oh well.

Vogt has had a decent season for hotshot young manager Julian Nagelsmann, who plenty of Everton fans would have liked to have seen take over at Goodison Park after Ronald Koeman was relieved of his duties earlier this season. Not the strongest at doing things that are asked of a central defender, like tackling and aerial ability, Vogt however certainly matches up on the John Stones prototype, with lots of speed, excellent ball possession and distribution ability.

The Blues defence has struggled with supporting the attack, often being forced into passing the ball sideways without too much help from the midfield pivots. Having two legitimate fullbacks who can create space and at least one center half with an eye for a decent pass would go a long way towards helping the transition game.

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A three-man backline would bring out the best in Vogt as it would provide him adequate cover for his defensive frailties, but the 6’4” speedy defender certainly has room for improvement with over two years left in his current contract.

He has featured in 26 games for the ninth-placed Hoffenheim this season, playing the most minutes of any outfield player. The German club, like Everton, were eliminated in the group stages of the Europa League, out of the Cup but in a much more balanced Bundesliga are just four points out of sixth place and a spot in Europe is still all to play for.