Been linked with 3-4 CBS in that mould recently, it's almost like the DoF and manager have a plan isn't it...
Bensabaibi 23, Tierney 21, Mena 23...
Almost like we are looking at a certain age range isn't it?
I know lots of people think it's an either or, and by all means it could easily be any 2 from those 3 but given the strength of some of the reports, the profile of the players and the broader outlook I wouldn't rule out Everton being in for all 3.
Tierney is an out and out left back, I know he's done a job in a central defensive 2 but he'd be too small to do it in England. It has gone a bit quiet on that front but I don't necessarily think thats a bad thing. My own view is Celtic have looked to move him on, found a suitor in Everton and a lot of the reports our end were as much about sounding the lad out. I'd predict we are thrashing out the way the deal is structured with Celtic currently.
Bensabaibi looks a versatile defender, I'd imagine is being bought at a centre back but could fill in as a left back if needed. I think it outs enormous question marks over Baines, who while I have a lot of time for may be moved on. He doesn't fit Silva's style, and Brands will see him as a depleting asset on big money. Bensabaibi is a left field unknown name so fits the bill.
Mena has come from left field somewhat. Could just be the agent trying to use us. However the Dutch and Barcelona have quite strong connections, as do PSV (dating back to Ronaldo and Bobby Robson). I wouldn't rule out conversations happening before the World Cup. He seems the sort of player who'd have been on PSV's radar, he'd flopped at Barca but clearly has a lot of talent and probably needs a step down to build confidence. If thats the case Tuesday's performance will have thrown a spanner in the works.
Alternatively we could have been convinced by his display on Tuesday. He is available for loan initially so there is very little risk on the transfer and no commitment to a long term fee. Whatever people think of loan signings, they are a lot more risk free, especially when buying from the continent (Imagine if Klaasen & Sandro were loans initially!). There will be an element of pragmatism in this.
We will be losing at least 2 centre backs. If we can move Martina on maybe 2 left backs, so I can easily see a world where all 3 are signed. I'd be extremely happy if we did that.
