Everton are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace right-back Daniel Munoz before the window shuts, with David Moyes eager to bring in a recognised option at right-back before the new season gets underway. The Colombian international has become a genuine target for the Toffees, though landing him won’t be easy given his uncertain situation at Selhurst Park, where Palace are unlikely to let him leave without a fight after another strong year from their experienced defender.
The need has been obvious throughout pre-season, with Jake O’Brien and Merlin Röhl both filling in on the right despite neither being a natural fit there. That stopgap arrangement appears to have pushed Moyes toward wanting a settled solution, and Munoz’s blend of defensive solidity and attacking threat looks like exactly what Everton are missing down that flank.
Time may be against them, though. Everton had also been tracking Celtic’s Alistair Johnston, but an injury to the Canadian has reportedly complicated that route, potentially shifting focus firmly onto Munoz instead. Journalist Mauricio Gonzalez Arteaga has pegged his value at around £30 million — a significant outlay, but one Everton may see as worthwhile for a player who could strengthen the side immediately.
Competition is heating up, however, with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest also credited with interest, giving Palace considerable leverage in any negotiation. Forest’s links are especially notable given Oliver Glasner’s prior working relationship with Munoz at Palace, and the manager is well aware of what the defender could add to his side both defensively and going forward.
Part of the appeal is the attacking output Everton have lacked from their full-back positions. Munoz managed four goals, three assists and eight big chances created across 29 Premier League appearances last season, according to Sofascore — numbers that show he offers far more than pure defensive cover.
That attacking dimension is precisely what Moyes’ side could use, with O’Brien and Vitalii Mykolenko providing steadiness but little of the forward-thrusting quality Munoz brings. At 30, he’d also arrive with proven Premier League experience, meaning minimal adjustment period compared with a fresh import.
With the deadline closing in, Everton face a pressing decision. Palace’s £30 million valuation puts them in a comfortable position given the multiple suitors circling, and Moyes may need to move decisively rather than risk losing out to Tottenham or Forest.
Ultimately, whether the move happens could hinge on Everton’s willingness to meet Palace’s asking price and persuade Munoz that Merseyside is his best next step — a deal that, if completed, would hand Moyes a notable boost as he shapes his squad for the campaign ahead.
