Three possible defensive replacements for Ramiro Funes Mori at Everton

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Lamine Kone

Could we see Everton once again target Kone?

Lamine Kone was a target for Everton during the summer, however, a move to Merseyside failed for the Ivorian international.

The 27-year-old has started the season in a busy fashion, averaging 10 defensive actions per game in a Sunderland side which have lost four of their opening six Premier League games – leaving themselves rock bottom of the league.

A fee of £14million was touted during the summer, which Everton reportedly matched, though former Blues boss David Moyes was keen on bringing in replacements first.

Despite contract talks being brought forward before the close of the window, Kone rejected the offer and handed in a transfer request.

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The Toffees then increased their offer to £20million, but the deal was rejected, with Moyes proposing a deal including Jagielka.

Kone joined Sunderland last January for Sam Allardyce in a £6million move, where he played a big part in the Black Cats’ survival, with their rivals, Newcastle United, dropping to the Championship.

He played 15 times after signing, in which Sunderland looked a lot tighter at the back, conceding just 16 goals. The powerful defender also scored twice – both coming in a 3-0 win over Everton, sealing their Premier League status.

Although Kone agreed on a new deal shortly after the summer window, he may be once again tempted in a move to Everton with his side yet to win a game.