Everton are following a similar trajectory as they were last season in the Premier League as they teeter on the edge of the relegation zone once again just one point clear of the bottom three.

Frank Lampard has been holding the reins at Goodison Park for less than a year and has had just one full transfer window so far to fix the numerous problems caused by the reckless spending and poor transfer decisions made by Farhad Moshiri since he became the majority stakeholder of the club back in 2016.

The former Chelsea boss commenced a cut-throat clear-out in the summer, getting rid of many players who were not committed or offering the quality that Everton desperately need to retain their top-flight status comfortably.

Allan, Cenk Tosun, Andre Gomes, Dele Alli and Jean-Philippe Gbamin were all given their marching orders over the last transfer window and it would come as no surprise if Lampard continues to get rid of the deadwood in the team over the next few transfer windows too.

One player who has been rarely seen for Everton this term, but has been the centre of speculation surrounding his future on Merseyside, is Yerry Mina. Indeed, it could be the perfect time in January to find a suitable replacement who can offer an upgrade in availability to the team.

It has been reported this week that Lampard is looking to part ways with the Columbian centre-back who is currently the highest paid player at the club, and long-term transfer target Rodrigo Becao could fit the profile of player to replace Mina's role in the team.

When you compare the 26-year-old warrior - who was hailed "insurmountable" by journalist Bruno Queiroz - to Mina last season, Becao outperformed the Everton defender in many attributes including aerial duels won (66.3% v 65.2%), tackles and interceptions completed (123 v 23), as well as completing more blocks (45 v 13).

Above all, Becao has offered Udinese full availability, making 36 appearances last season and nine in the present campaign so far, whilst Mina has only been seen 16 times in all competitions for Everton since the start of the 2021/22 season due to injuries.

With that being said, it would be a no-brainer for Everton to reinvest in their defence with players who can deliver availability and consistency at Goodison Park as Lampard cannot currently rely on Mina to deliver for the team when he is needed the most.