Does Everton’s Santiago Arias interest hint at central role for Mason Holgate?

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Everton are reportedly on the hunt for Santiago Arias. As reported by the Liverpool Echo the Toffees are looking into a potential deal for the Colombian defender valued at around £11 million.

Everton sporting director Marcel Brands signed Arias from Sporting Lisbon during his time at PSV Eindhoven and now wants to bring him in from Atletico Madrid.

It is a deal that makes sense considering the departure of Jonjoe Kenny on loan to Schalke 04.

But what would it mean for fellow Everton youngster Mason Holgate?

Holgate struggled to find his way into Everton boss Marco Silva’s plans last season. In January, he was sent out on loan to West Brom as a consequence.

Holgate thrived with the Baggies and it seems Everton might have plans for him next season.

However, the arrival of Arias would certainly suggest otherwise. It would certainly suggest Everton do not plan on using Holgate as a right-back.

So perhaps it means Silva sees Holgate as central defensive cover.

With Kurt Zouma and Phil Jagielka gone,  Everton need somebody to step up if nobody is brought to Goodison Park. Holgate could certainly fulfill the role of third-choice centre-back, whilst also providing additional cover in the full-back area.

So perhaps the pursuit of Arias is not a slight on Holgate at all. Instead, it could just be Silva sees him playing in the heart of defence.