Everton eyeing surprise January move for “tremendous” Arsenal star

Everton are keen on an Arsenal star. (Reuters/Andrew Boyers)

Everton’s FA Cup journey came to a frustrating end at the weekend as they were knocked out by fellow Premier League side Sunderland following a 1–1 draw at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees were ultimately undone in the penalty shootout, where Black Cats goalkeeper Robin Roefs saved all three spot-kicks he faced to send the visitors through to the fourth round.

Despite naming a strong starting XI, Everton struggled to impose themselves and looked short on ideas for long spells.

A depleted bench — featuring several inexperienced options — told its own story, with eight senior players unavailable due to a combination of injury, suspension and international duty.

With January fast approaching, David Moyes is acutely aware that reinforcements are needed, and Everton are now being linked with a move that few would have seen coming.

Everton are monitoring Arsenal defender Ben White as they search for a solution to their ongoing problems at right-back, according to Football Insider.

The 28-year-old England international has emerged as a potential target, with the Merseyside club open to exploring a deal during the January window.

Prising White away from the Emirates would be far from straightforward. Arsenal are expected to be reluctant to sanction the sale of an experienced squad member mid-season, even though White has started only four Premier League matches from his 12 appearances so far this campaign.

Mikel Arteta has previously described White as a “tremendous” player, and the defender remains under contract in north London until 2028, with the option of an additional year. However, recent injury setbacks and his reduced role could yet complicate Arsenal’s stance.

For Everton, White’s versatility and Premier League pedigree make him an appealing option as they look to steady their defence and add reliability during a crucial second half of the season.

While a January move would be ambitious and difficult to pull off, Everton’s interest underlines their need for proven quality. Whether Arsenal are willing to listen is another matter entirely, but with the Toffees short on depth and consistency, a bold approach may be deemed worth the risk.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.