Sources: Everton to respond to injury by lining up new signing, it's a 'top priority' for them

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(Credit: Imago) Wed 22 April 2026 12:30, UK Everton are set to respond to Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury by adding a new right-back to their squad for the start of pre-season, sources have told Football Insider.The Toffees believe that they have enough centre-back cover within their camp already, while the addition of a new option on the right side of the backline remains a “top priority” for them. The plan is for a new starting option to join the squad at right-back, with sources indicating that Jake O’Brien will move back into the centre of defence to provide cover if Branthwaite’s injury lay-off stretches into next season.

David Moyes also has James Tarkowski and Michael Keane as options at the heart of the rearguard, with both enjoying strong campaigns this term.Everton’s transfer plans had always seen them place a new right-back towards the top of their list of priorities, and their need to address that position has only increased in the wake of Branthwaite’s latest setback. 💸 Everton Transfer News 💸 Get the latest recruitment inside track from the Hill Dickinson Stadium: exclusive updates on the pursuit of Liam Delap, the Friedkin Group’s summer budget, and Jack Grealish’s permanent future. VISIT THE EVERTON TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES How long will Jarrad Branthwaite miss for Everton?Branthwaite has been a key figure for Everton in recent years, but they have been forced to live without his calming presence at the back for much of the campaign.

Jarrad Branthwaite has suffered a significant hamstring injury and will be ruled out for the reminder of the season. The defender is to see a specialist to determine if an operation is required 🔵 pic.twitter.com/XoF5F6SUzQ— The Bobble (@ElBobble) April 21, 2026 View Tweet With that in mind, the Toffees will try to cover themselves by moving into the market once the window opens, to ensure they have enough options if Branthwaite’s issue proves to be more serious than first thought.Everton have already settled on two other priority signingsFootball Insider revealed last weekend that Everton will have a limited budget to spend in the market this summer, after adding several new faces to their squad last year.The Hill Dickinson Stadium outfit have already laid down their priorities for the upcoming window, with a new centre-midfielder and a new striker identified as clear targets alongside the need for a right-back.