Exit update on starting Everton defender emerges amid 'Major Cause For Concern' - Journalists

Everton are not thought to be looking to replace Vitalii Mykolenko this summer as they search for left-back signings, according to Alan Myers.

The Sky Sports journalist responded to questions via X on 26 July to indicate he believed the position was on the agenda during the transfer window but expressed “doubt” at the idea that it is in order to cover for the Ukranian’s exit.

However, Liverpool Echo journalist Ian Croll claimed via X the same day that there is a “major cause for concern” at left-back currently thanks to the 25-year-old’s injury issues and a lack of cover.

Mykolenko suffered ankle ligament damage last season [The Athletic, 30 April] and then was substituted hurt in a national team friendly against Moldova during the summer [Liverpool Echo, 12 June].

Sean Dyche confirmed on 16 July he hadn’t travelled at the same time as the squad to Ireland after a set-back, while Area Napoli reported the same day of transfer interest from Antonio Conte’s side.

Everton want to sign left-back as Napoli linked

Mykolenko has shown plenty of positive signs in his time at the club but has arguably still yet to surpass the man he replaced in Lucas Digne.

Sean Dyche has never looked overly convinced by either the Ukranian or Nathan Patterson on the other side so could well be looking to upgrade.

But with Ben Godfrey gone and Ashley Young 39 and surprisingly erratic for such an experienced player there is little in the way of depth on the left so if Mykolenko were injured it would be a clear weakness.

Everton may not have the luxury of ignoring any offers for the full-back if Napoli or any other interested party came forward but unless a bid was major it would be risky to let him go.

Losing him at this stage would leave Dyche in the same position even if a new signing is made, requiring a second replacement to come in when there is little time before the season starts already.

There looks to be a lot of work still to do and it will necessarily have to eat into the new season as things stand, but if a left-back is in the works and Mykolenko is not expected to go the situation seems to moving in the right direction.

In other Everton news, the Toffees are ready to jump at the chance to sign a new international centre-back.

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