Everton defender admits to wanting 'new challenge' in major transfer blow

Just as it looked like the tide might be starting to turn for Everton, the Blues have been faced with another potential dilemma.

Centre-back Nathalie Bjorn - who mere days ago was the hero for Brian Sorensen's side against Aston Villa - has publicly stated her desire to swap the shores of Merseyside for "a new challenge". It's not an altogether surprising revelation - a possible move away from Walton Hall Park has been on the cards for some time for the Swede.

But, after a turbulent couple of months for the Blues, Bjorn's comments risk sowing further seeds of unease amongst a squad and a fanbase that have already had more than their fair share of adversity to contend with of late.

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"I feel like I need a new step and a new challenge to continue developing," the defender told Swedish broadcaster STV when quizzed on her future. "Then, if it is in Spain or England, we will see. They are the two best leagues."

In an industry where careers are short and lucrative moves can be few and far between, it's perhaps not unwise for Bjorn - who is out of contract at Everton next summer - to keep her options open. However, the decision to flirt so plainly with the possibility of a move elsewhere feels a little ill-timed from the Blues' no.5.

The 26-year-old joined Everton from FC Rosengård in July 2021 and has since established herself as one of the most accomplished defenders in Europe. After Sorensen took charge of the Blues last summer, Bjorn was inducted into the Dane's leadership group, captaining the side on a number of occasions and marshalling the back-line with great