Everton got off to a flier in the Premier League and have presented Ronald Koeman with the perfect gift after his slightly controversial decision to leave Southampton for the Goodison Park. Koeman came with an excellent reputation and people actually believed he would pull the club out of the unreasonable mess that Roberto Martinez had taken the club into. The Dutch national is a far more pragmatic manager and has solutions to the problems that modern day football throws at teams.
He was extremely successful at Southampton where he had to deal with the issue of the Saints being a selling club. Despite the regular loss of the top talents to his competitors, Southampton never let go of the style and the attacking nature of their play, aligned with a solid defensive structure. Understandably, this was an ideal match for both the club and the manager.
And looking at the way the team is playing, the board will have confidence in sanctioning more transfers as they will be buoyed by the possibility of achieving a credible finish this season. Koeman has shown great nous in replacing John Stones as he brought in experienced Welsh campaigner Ashley Williams who has fitted in seamlessly into his new surroundings alongside Jagielka.
While Stones’ sale has funded their transfer activity, the owners have reportedly set aside a considerable amount for Koeman to make further additions. But the next target that Everton have set their eyes on will surprisingly not burn a hole in their pockets.
Axel Witsel has been linked with Everton for a long time and reports indicate that they have retained an interest in the towering Belgian midfield powerhouse.
The Zenit Saint Petersburg midfielder can be bought on a free transfer and this very fact has made him a hot property in the market.
There is a popular consensus who believe that Witsel is a better player than his Belgian teammate Fellaini, who plays for Manchester United currently. Their recent displays for the national team have fuelled this line of thought and it’s no surprise the player is in demand at clubs all over the world.
His physical prowess along with his technical nous and passing ability makes him a midfield powerhouse similar to the likes of Yaya Toure. He was primarily a defensive midfielder but has developed his game into more of a box to box player. He will add tremendous value to Everton, who have ambitions of staying in and around the top of the table throughout the season.
They have a settled pair of Gueye and Barry at the moment but lack in quality depth. The addition of Witsel will be an upgrade and considering Barry’s age, he can also be a replacement being only 27 years old.
But with a host of clubs interested in him, Everton have to draw up an interesting offer for the player to opt for the Toffees.
