Everton test Bologna’s resolve with audacious Holm-plus-Patterson proposal

Everton have stuck a marker down in the January market, tabling an eye-catching proposal to Bologna for Swedish right-back Emil Holm — cash on the table, plus Nathan Patterson — according to local outlet Corriere di Bologna. It’s ambitious, it’s bold, and it screams of a manager who knows exactly where his squad needs tightening.

A statement bid for a problem position

Let’s be honest: right-back has been a square peg/round hole for David Moyes of late. He’s leaned on Republic of Ireland international Jake O’Brien to do a job out wide despite the lad being a bona fide centre-half. He’s coped admirably, but if Everton want to kick on, they need a specialist in that channel.

Why Bologna aren’t biting (for now)

Reports say Bologna aren’t keen to part with Holm mid-season, and you can see why. When fit, he’s been a regular, with six Serie A starts and five goal involvements to show for it — tidy numbers for a full-back. Earlier this campaign he even set a unique Serie A marker as the first defender to register a goal or assist in five consecutive league matches. That’s the sort of output that makes sporting directors dig their heels in.

Patterson’s predicament

Nathan Patterson has had a rough run with injuries and minutes. Even when available, he’s found himself behind a centre-back playing out of position. A move could reboot his trajectory, but swapping the Premier League for a Serie A high-flyer mid-season is easier said than done.

Holm’s fit for Moyes’ blueprint

Holm brings legs, delivery, and the kind of penalty-box threat from deep that Moyes loves. He attacks space, he’s clever at the back post, and he doesn’t shirk his defensive duties. For Everton, that balance could transform the right flank from stopgap to stronghold.

January realities and the summer Plan B

Player-plus-cash deals are the Rubik’s Cubes of the window — lots of moving parts, plenty that can jam. If Bologna continue to hold firm, Everton’s recruitment team must have a summer fallback ready. The priority is clear: get a natural right-back through the door, whether it’s now or when the market softens.

Transfer watch: If you track the gossip as closely as the odds on the best betting sites, keep an eye on this one. A revised offer, a late twist, or a summer sequel all feel firmly on the cards.

The verdict

Credit to Everton for pushing hard at a clear weak spot. Holm would be a proper upgrade and a stylistic fit; Patterson in part-ex is a logical sweetener. Bologna’s stance is the only sticking point — and in January, that can be immovable. If not Holm now, a right-back of similar profile must follow. Progress depends on it.