Everton are prioritising the signing of a new centre-back in the January transfer window next month, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Lowdown: Centre-back issues

The Blues are in a hugely disappointing run of form and it hasn't been helped by a number of injuries in the centre of defence.

Yerry Mina is the most high-profile current absentee in that area of the pitch, but while Michael Keane has made 17 Premier League starts this season, Mason Holgate (five) is next up in terms of starts, with Ben Godfrey (14) often playing at full-back.

It highlights the need for a new centre-back to come in next month, and it appears as though that could happen.

The Latest: Journalist makes transfer claim

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, O'Rourke claimed that Rafael Benitez is eyeing up a central defender in January to help revive Everton's fortunes.

He outlined: "I know Everton and Newcastle are both in the market for centre-halves in January. That's the key position that they want to fill in the January transfer window."

The Verdict: Makes perfect sense

While the thought of relegation for Everton still seems unfathomable, they must make sure their current situation doesn't get a whole lot worse.

They look weak at centre-back, conceding 29 goals in 17 league games in 2021/22, so the need for reinforcements is plain to see.

Bringing in an experienced head who can fill in alongside Keane, or in a back three, could help to plug the leak at the back and steer Everton away from the drop zone.

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