Everton’s summer business has already highlighted one side of their squad-building strategy through the permanent signing of Zara Kramžar. The club’s reported pursuit of Hannah Blundell points towards the other.
According to Emma Sanders, Everton are in advanced discussions to sign the experienced defender on a permanent deal following her loan spell from Manchester United. With Blundell now a free agent after her contract expired in June, the move would give Everton an opportunity to retain a player who quickly became a trusted part of the squad last season.
Experience Remains Valuable
Modern recruitment discussions often focus on age profiles, development curves and long-term value. Blundell represents a different kind of asset.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United defender has spent more than a decade competing at the highest level of English football. During that period she won multiple Women’s Super League titles, FA Cups and established herself as one of the league’s most reliable full-backs. Her career has not always generated headlines, but consistency is often what keeps players at elite clubs for so long.
More Than A Loan Player
Hannah Blundell joined Everton on loan in January and went on to make 12 appearances during the second half of the campaign. That period was significant for reasons beyond the minutes played.
The defender had spent much of 2025 away from football after giving birth to her daughter, returning to first-team action later that year before making the temporary switch to Everton.
For many players, rebuilding rhythm and confidence after a lengthy absence takes time. Everton provided that opportunity, and the reported talks suggest both sides saw enough to continue the relationship.
Building A Balanced Squad
The most successful squads rarely consist entirely of young prospects or experienced veterans. They need both. That is why Everton’s summer activity feels connected. Kramžar represents investment in the future. Blundell represents continuity, leadership and proven quality.
There are younger defenders available across Europe. There are also players with greater resale potential. Yet clubs often underestimate the value of footballers who understand the demands of a league, a dressing room and a season. Hannah Blundell has already experienced all three.
Everton’s Next Step
Everton’s challenge over the next few years is not simply improving their starting eleven. It is creating a squad capable of sustaining progress. That requires different types of signings.
Some arrivals are made because of what they might become. Others are retained because clubs know exactly what they already are. The reported move for Hannah Blundell falls into the second category, which may explain why Everton appear keen to complete it.
Transfer Snapshot
- Player: Hannah Blundell
- Date of Birth: 25 May 1994
- Age: 32
- Position: Left-Back / Full-Back
- Current Status: Free Agent
- Previous Club: Manchester United
- Interested Club: Everton
- Nationality: England
- Transfer Status: Advanced talks reported
- Contract Length: Not reported
Why It Matters
Blundell would bring experience from Chelsea, Manchester United and England to a squad that is increasingly blending young talent with proven WSL performers.
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