Sheffield United's stunning defensive record has been one of the key reasons why they are currently smashing expectations and lying fifth in the Premier League table, conceding fewer goals than league leaders Liverpool, and one of the main men behind that phenomenal stat is John Egan. 

Egan, who has amassed an 81.7% pass success rate whilst making 5.7 appearances clearances per game, has been a mainstay as part of Chris Wilder's top-flight defensive masterclass, impressing pundits such as Adrien Durham along the way.

In comparison, the Toffees are at the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to defending, having conceded exactly double the amount.

According to The Sun on Sunday via Sheffield United News, Marco Silva's side could be seeking to resolve the issue by launching a bid for Egan, potentially in the January transfer window.

Indeed, this whisper could make a lot of sense from a Goodison Park perspective. Compared to Michael Keane - Everton's England international defender - Egan actually makes more tackles (1.3 to 1), more interceptions (2.1 to 1.7) fewer fouls (0.8 to 0.9 per WhoScored) a game.

A most recent example of Everton's frailty at the back is their 3-2 defeat away to Brighton, having snuck themselves in front with a late 2-1 lead, they seemingly threw away the game due to basic defensive lapses that were completely avoidable.

Sheffield United, however, demonstrated by their ability to completely shut out Everton in their 2-0 win on Merseyside, have seemed to iron out individual errors costing them crucial goals, perhaps due to the leadership offered by Egan.

That being said, if Silva's men are interested in signing the Republic of Ireland international, they will have a hard time getting him judging by how crucial he has been to the Blades' fairytale start - especially since he has two and a half years remaining on his current contract.

Time will tell if Everton truly are committed to swaying the centre-back, but the statistics don't lie, and they say that Egan would be a welcome addition.

Would Egan be a good fit at Everton? Join the discussion by commenting below...