Report: Everton target Nico Elvedi, once compared to John Stones available for £4.3m

Borussia Monchengladbach have reportedly set their asking price for Everton target Nico Elvedi as deadline day approaches.

German outlet BILD reports that the Bundesliga side would be willing to accept an offer of around £4.3m for the centre-back, who was once compared to former Everton defender John Stones.

The Swiss international has been linked with a move to Goodison Park as Sean Dyche looks to strengthen his defensive options.

The Toffees are light at the back following Yerry Mina’s release following the expiry of his contract and Conor Coady’s loan deal coming to an end.

Indeed, Mason Holgate has also left the club on a season-long loan to Championship club Southampton, leaving Dyche with even fewer options.

Everton need defensive incomings like Nico Elvedi as well as striking reinforcements

Everton have had a dreadful start to the season and have been as woeful in defense as they have been in attack.

The Blues are yet to score a goal and have lost the opening three games of a season without finding the net for the first time in the club’s history.

Attacking concerns will hopefully be rectified by the imminent arrival of Portuguese international Beto from Serie A side Udinese.

However, with six goals conceded already this campaign, our defensive frailties are worryingly apparent and a centre-back must be brought in this week.

Jarrad Branthwaite put in an almost faultless display during last Saturday’s defeat to Wolves, putting in a player of the match performance.

Indeed, the England U-21 star must retain his place in the starting XI ahead of Michael Keane for this weekend’s visit to Sheffield United.

However, competition for places is needed and Sean Dyche’s options at centre-back are limited to say the least.

Elvedi is out of contract next summer and Monchengladbach appear willing to cash in on the 26-year-old this week to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.