Everton's Right-Back Chase Hits Snags: Johnston Deal Cools, Wan-Bissaka Pricey

Everton long-standing 'frustrating problem' at right-back has deepened with the Premier League season already underway, as key transfer targets prove elusive. The club's pursuit of Celtic Alistair Johnston has reportedly cooled significantly due to a stalemate over his valuation, while a move for West Ham United Aaron Wan-Bissaka faces similar financial hurdles and conflicting reports regarding its status. This ongoing struggle to find a reliable right-back has plagued Everton for multiple transfer window, leaving manager David Moyes with thin options like a potentially outgoing Nathan Patterson and natural centre-back Jake O'Brien playing out of position. The departure of long-serving captain Seamus Coleman has only highlighted the urgency. While new ownership under the Friedkin Group reportedly provides a budget, the club appears hesitant to overpay, mindful of past financial scrutiny and Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), previously known as Financial Fair Play (FFP). With the transfer window set to close on September 1, Everton is now exploring alternatives like Strasbourg's Guéla Doué and RB Leipzig's Ridle Baku, and has even been linked with a short-term move for veteran Kyle Walker. The next few weeks will be crucial for Everton to finally address this persistent squad weakness, as supporters anxiously await a breakthrough before the deadline.