Three defensive signings for Everton this summer, including Arsenal full-back

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Lamine Koné

Brought in to help bolster Sunderland’s defensive efforts by Sam Allardyce in the January transfer window, Lamine Koné has quickly grown into The Black Cats’ most stable and reliable member of the back-line. Using his physique exceptionally well to first dominate forwards when the ball is played into their feet and also capable to chase into the channels, Koné has greatly helped Sunderland tighten up at the back and should they avoid relegation, he would be a main reason for this.

Of course, Everton’s woes at centre-half this season have been well documented. John Stones should still turn out to be a terrific player in the future but is currently suffering from horribly low confidence levels, while age is quickly catching up on Phil Jagielka and Funes Mori’s erratic displays are not sufficient for a club with Everton’s aspirations.

Lamine Koné possesses everything that Stones does not – except perhaps great Premier League experience – so should be the perfect partner for him. The January signing deals with situations in a no-nonsense style and his aerial prowess would complement Stones’ natural ball-playing tendencies.