Everton eye free agent amid right-back search under Moyes | OneFootball

Everton Among Several Clubs Eyeing Vladimir Coufal Free Transfer

Right-back market heats up as Coufal becomes available

Vladimir Coufal’s departure from West Ham has prompted a flurry of interest, with Everton, Wolves and Fulham among the clubs circling for the experienced full-back. As Football Insider report, the 32-year-old is now a free agent following the expiration of his contract at the London Stadium after five years of service.

Photo: IMAGO

Everton are keen to strengthen in defence, particularly at right-back. David Moyes worked with Coufal at West Ham and is believed to be an admirer of the Czech Republic international.

Photo IMAGO

Championship clubs also monitoring

It is not just Premier League clubs assessing Coufal’s next move. Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland, all newly promoted to the top flight, are also keeping tabs on the situation. They are reportedly eager to add Premier League experience to their squads and see Coufal as a valuable option.

Mixed end to West Ham spell

Coufal made 25 appearances in all competitions during the 2024–25 season but failed to register a goal or assist. “He was effectively replaced by Aaron Wan-Bissaka,” the report notes, though Coufal stayed on to provide cover and competition until his contract expired.

Photo IMAGO

Despite a quieter final year, Coufal’s overall contribution cannot be ignored. He made 147 appearances in the Premier League and was part of the side that lifted the UEFA Conference League trophy in 2023.

Fulham and Wolves remain interested

Fulham’s long-standing interest dates back to the January window, while Wolves are planning for life without Nelson Semedo, who is expected to leave on a free.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This potential move feels a little underwhelming. Coufal, while experienced, is 32 and arguably past his peak, as highlighted by his diminishing role at West Ham. The fact he made 25 appearances without a single goal or assist does little to spark excitement.

Yes, there is the Moyes connection, and that familiarity could help in the short term, but is this really a signing that signals ambition? Or does it reflect a continuation of short-term fixes over long-term planning?

Everton have already tried plugging defensive gaps with ageing full-backs, and it has not always worked. While Coufal’s leadership and grit are respected, the concern is that his arrival could block younger, hungrier talent or be a fallback if other targets fail.

If Everton truly want to rebuild under Moyes, fans might prefer to see fresher faces with more upside than another veteran whose best days may already be behind him.