Everton target Castagne to shore up right-back amid Coleman departure

Everton have placed Fulham defender Timothy Castagne on their shortlist for a right-back, aiming to address a long-standing positional concern following the departure of club captain Seamus Coleman. The Toffees view the 30-year-old Belgian international as a pragmatic acquisition who offers versatility and reliability.

Castagne has over 150 Premier League appearances and nearly 70 senior caps for Belgium. Since joining Fulham from Leicester City in 2023, he has earned a reputation as a reliable defender, with his versatility allowing him to operate as a traditional right-back, wing-back or cover at left-back.

Everton are prepared to leverage the promise of a guaranteed starting role to entice the defender to Merseyside. Castagne’s starting minutes at Craven Cottage have been subject to rotation; he started just over half of the 38 Premier League games last season. Fulham regard the Belgian as an important squad member, but his contract situation may facilitate a move.

Castagne has one year remaining on his contract, so Fulham may be willing to sanction a departure to avoid losing him for free next summer. This structure potentially allows Everton to address a pressing need without significant financial outlay, aligning with their search for a cost-effective solution to the vacancy left by Coleman.

Everton also have Daniel Munoz on their list of right-back options. However, it remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace will part with the Colombian following the arrivals of Oscar Mingueza and Anan Khalaili. The club remains keen to bring in a new striker and have been linked with Chelsea’s Liam Delap, who they previously targeted before his move to Stamford Bridge.

With pre-season now concluded after a 1-1 draw against Lille, Everton have limited time to finalise any transfer business before their 2026/27 curtain-raiser against Palace. The club is actively seeking to resolve its defensive concerns before the season begins.