Everton are firmly in the race to sign Crystal Palace right-back Daniel Munoz before the transfer deadline, with manager David Moyes continuing to search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.
The Colombian international has emerged as one of the players on Everton’s radar as Moyes looks to strengthen his options at right-back. The Toffees are believed to have shown serious interest in the 30-year-old, although they are not expected to have a straightforward path to completing the deal.
Munoz has reportedly been presented with several options regarding his future at Selhurst Park, leaving his situation increasingly uncertain as the transfer window approaches its conclusion. Palace will be reluctant to lose an important member of their squad, particularly after another impressive campaign from the experienced defender.
Everton’s need for a natural right-back has become increasingly obvious during pre-season. Jake O’Brien and Merlin Röhl have shared duties in the position, despite neither player being a natural fit for the role. Their willingness to fill in has provided Moyes with temporary cover, but the manager is believed to want a more specialist option before the season gets underway.
Munoz could therefore represent an ideal solution. The Palace defender offers experience, attacking quality and defensive strength, while his ability to contribute in the final third could give Everton an additional dimension from the right flank.
Everton Must Act Quickly
Everton have already explored other possibilities this summer, with Moyes holding discussions over a potential move for Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston. However, the Canada international’s injury appears to have complicated that pursuit and could force the Toffees to consider alternative targets.
That situation has seemingly pushed Munoz higher up Everton’s list of potential options. If the Merseyside club are serious about bringing him to Hill Dickinson Stadium, they may need to move quickly rather than allowing rival clubs to gain an advantage.
According to DSports journalist Mauricio Gonzalez Arteaga, Munoz is valued at around £30 million. Such a price tag would represent a significant investment for Everton, but the club could view the Colombian as a player capable of immediately improving their defensive options.
The Toffees, however, are not alone in their interest.
Tottenham and Nottingham Forest are also reportedly keeping an eye on the Palace defender, creating the possibility of a three-way battle for his signature. With several clubs monitoring his availability, Palace are in a strong position when it comes to negotiations.
Nottingham Forest could be particularly interesting in the race because manager Oliver Glasner is understood to be keen on reuniting with Munoz. Glasner worked with the defender during his time at Crystal Palace and knows exactly what he can offer.
Forest’s emphasis on defensive organisation could make Munoz an attractive option for Glasner, while the Colombian’s ability to contribute offensively would also fit the demands of modern full-back play.
Why Munoz Could Be Perfect for Everton
One area Everton could arguably improve next season is their attacking threat from the wide areas. The Toffees have players capable of performing defensive duties, but they have sometimes lacked consistent attacking production from their full-backs.
Munoz could help solve that problem.
The Colombian enjoyed another productive season at Palace, recording four goals and three assists while creating eight big chances in 29 Premier League appearances, according to Sofascore. Those numbers highlight his ability to influence games beyond his defensive responsibilities.
His attacking contribution could be particularly valuable for Everton, who need more creativity and penetration from the flanks. A right-back capable of pushing forward, delivering dangerous balls and contributing goals could give Moyes another weapon in his attacking system.
O’Brien and Vitalii Mykolenko can provide defensive reliability, but Munoz would potentially offer a different profile, combining physicality and defensive awareness with the confidence to get forward.
At 30, Munoz would also bring considerable Premier League experience to an Everton squad that could benefit from proven players in key positions. His familiarity with the demands of English football would mean he should not require a lengthy adaptation period.
With the transfer deadline approaching, Everton now face a crucial decision. If Moyes sees Munoz as the right player to solve his right-back problem, the Toffees may need to act decisively before Tottenham, Nottingham Forest or another interested club can make their move.
For Palace, meanwhile, the reported £30 million valuation could make the situation even more intriguing. They have little reason to sell cheaply, especially with multiple clubs apparently interested.
Everton’s pursuit is therefore likely to depend not only on their willingness to meet Palace’s valuation but also on how quickly they can convince Munoz that Merseyside is the right destination.
For Moyes, securing the Colombian could be a major step towards strengthening his squad before the new campaign. With competition increasing and time running down, Everton cannot afford to hesitate if Munoz has become their preferred target.
