Everton appointed Ronald Koeman as their head coach in the summer replacing Roberto Martinez after the Spaniard’s three failed years at Goodison Park. Well, it would be harsh to say that the first of the former Wigan manager at Everton was all bad but the next two seasons were dismal as the Toffees finished in the bottom half for two consecutive seasons. With owner Farhad Moshiri’s financial backing and Koeman’s stewardship, Everton fans had big expectations from this season.
Well, Everton have not done the worst this season but things could have been much better. The Toffees were thrashed 5-0 by Chelsea last weekend and things look far from promising for the Toffees. It’s no surprise to see the Blue half of Merseyside getting linked with a number of players ahead of the January transfer window.
The Daily Mail claims that the Toffees are in pole position to land promising Norwegian wonderkid Rafik Zekhnini from Odd BK. In fact, the 18-year-old has been given permission to fly to England and discuss a potential move to Goodison Park. If Everton can pull off this deal, it will be one hell of a deal from them.
Zekhinini is right now one of the biggest talents in European football and has a bright future ahead of him. Aged only 18, his stocks are very high right now with the talent he has already shown and if Everton manage to bring to bring him at the blue half of Merseyside, it will show a massive statement of intent from them.
Zekhinini is primarily a winger with bags of pace in his locker and can be deployed on either flank. The Norwegian is an either footed player, something you want from a modern day winger. The 18-year-old looks much composed and mature for his tender age. He has already played 43 games for Odd Bk, his boyhood club and has been capped at every youth level for Norway boasting 20 youth caps already. A senior call-up does not seem too far away if he can keep up his good work.
The youngster can also be deployed as a number ten thanks to his vision at this tender age. Ronald Koeman is a manager who is never afraid to give opportunities to young players when they are ready for it. Everton need solid young players to achieve their ambitions of becoming a force in England once again and Zekhinini could be a long-term success at Goodison Park.
