You seem stuck in the past when it comes to how the game is played.
Arteta's Arsenal often start with four central defenders. When Pep's City was at their best, they often played four central defenders. Thomas Frank in Brentford often played a central defender as right back to get the best out of Mbeumo.
Moyes was clear the other day that right back wasn't his priority. While fans seems to disagree, he seems to see O'Brien as a right back. He doesn't seem to trust him as central defender. Dyche didn't trust him. There's this weird idea amongst many that because he looks better than expected as a right back, he must be great as a central defender. Ignoring the fact that he always has looked better as a right back than as a central defender for Everton.
It will come down to balance. If we sign this young, progressive right back that everyone seems to want, he is likely to look awful playing behind a Dibling or a Fofana. We will need a rock solid defense that is defense first to get the best out of our offensive players.
Best example was the first half against Leeds. Almost everything came down our left side and both Garner and Ndiaye struggled against Bogle and James. Moyes asked Ndiaye and Alcaraz to swap sides to give Garner some more help. Only to see Leeds start attacking down our right side. Leeds game plan was to exploit that Ndiaye is limited defensively and neutralize his offensive output by forcing him into defending.
In a perfect world we all want offensive full backs bombing down the line and combining with offensive flare players, but can you do that with a team that averages less than 40% possession in matches?
Could it be worthwhile playing four central defenders in certain matches if it allows Ndiaye, Grealish and Dibling(?) to cheat on the defensive work and stay a little higher? Just so we have someone to aim for when we win the ball.
Also remember that Branthwaite once was seen as right footed. He mostly uses his left foot because of his position, but I am sure he'll be fine as a right CD. Ake and Branthwaite can easily play together. Tarkowski on current form and the first two months of last season should not be a starter.
