Everton boss Marco Silva has suggested that the search for a new centre-back will continue in the January transfer window.
Having failed to replace either Kurt Zouma or Phil Jagielka from last season, Silva has been left with just three players with top-flight experience in the middle of the backline.
While summer arrival Jean-Philippe Gbamin is capable of deputising in that role, Everton would prefer to use him further forward, leaving the door open for business to be conducted at the beginning of 2020.
When quizzed on the subject on Friday, the Portuguese acknowledged that talks are still taking place regarding a fresh face in that position.
Silva is quoted by the Liverpool Echo as saying: "Even if you don't speak about that every week, it is normal we have chats about it and, of course, you are always looking.
"It is my job and the job of Marcel also and now he is doing his job, analysing everything. We will see, and what we can do to strengthen our squad will do in January, if you can, or next season again."
Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate are currently competing for two positions in defence.
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