Everton have been linked with a move for Torino’s Armando Izzo as they’re short of centre-backs this season. The Toffees released Phil Jagielka & Ashley Williams over the summer and loaned out Matthew Pennington to Hull City without signing one player to offset the loss.
It means Marco Silva has only Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate at his disposal and would have to dip into the reserves in case of injury – Morgan Feeney, Lewis Gibson. Izzo might not be the ideal option to solve their defensive crisis, however, as he doesn’t present value for money.
The 27-year-old has a £34m release clause and earns £28k-per-week in Serie A. Izzo boasts a wealth of experience, having made 101 appearances for Genoa and 57 for Torino, but he’s not been part of a watertight defence this season.
In 18 appearances, the Italian international has conceded 26 goals and kept only four clean sheets. He’s not commanding a starting place for his country either, featuring in only two of their last six Euro 2020 qualifiers. He’s spent more minutes as a right-back than centre-back for Italy too.
Should Brands return to Torino in January for Izzo?
Pay the release clause
Yes, but not at €40m
No, he isn't good enough
Everton’s most expensive defender is Yerry Mina (£27m from Barcelona), so it’s hard to see them spending more money on a player that doesn’t improve the starting eleven.