Everton set seal on Besic move

, 28 July, 120comments  |  Jump to most recent

Everton have confirmed the acquisition of Muhamed Besic for an officially undisclosed fee, believed to be £4m, from Ferencvaros, with the Bosnia-Herzegovina international signing a five-year contract with the club.

The final details of complicated and protracted negotiations were hammered out while the 21-year-old midfielder was on the Blues' trip to Thailand over the weekend and Besic can finally be announced as an Everton player.

He becomes the second signing of the summer after the capture of free agent Gareth Barry on a permanent deal and Roberto Martinez has spoken of his desire to bring in at least three more players before the transfer deadline at the end of next month.

Besic spoke with evertontv after the deal was confirmed and cited Roberto Martinez as the key factor in his agreeing to join the Blues.

“I know Everton is a really traditional club and the supporters are fantastic here," he said. "I think this is the biggest step I can make after Hungary.

“The most important reason why I signed for Everton was Roberto Martinez — I think he is a fantastic coach."

Having bedded in with the Everton squad at the pre-season camp in Austria and then the Bangkok trip, Besic is now looking ahead to making an impression on the Premier League, an environment to which he feels he will adapt well.

“I think my style is suited to playing in the Premier League and I think this is the best league in the world,” he continued. “I can play anywhere [in defence or midfield], but for Everton I think I will play as a central midfielder. I'll play where the coach says, though. It's not a problem.

“I enjoy playing in midfield because I get to see a lot of the ball and I think it is my best position.”

He faces competition from the likes of Barry, James McCarthy and Darron Gibson but with the addition of Europa League football this coming season, there should be plenty of scope for squad rotation.

“It will be difficult for me [to get into the team] because we have fantastic players, but I think with the help of the coach, I will do my best.

"The World Cup was really important and I think the most important game for me was the Argentina game. I think I did a good job and many clubs were looking... Mr Martinez also."

 

Reader Comments (120)

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Shane Corcoran
1 Posted 28/07/2014 at 16:50:33
Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive Positive.
Colin Glassar
2 Posted 28/07/2014 at 16:53:08
Well it took a while but we got our man. Now three more (incl. Lukaku) players and four loans and we should be ok.
Gerry Quinn
3 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:00:06
Excellent news - a "hard man" and "class passer" has joined Everton - will he become the new Colin Harvey ?
Kev Johnson
4 Posted 28/07/2014 at 16:59:15
Hurrah! Give the lad the number 13 shirt - unlucky for anyone he plays against.

HeÂ’s going to have to learn English pretty sharpish, as our squad is a bit short on Bosnian speakers. Or German speakers, for that matter.

Derek Knox
5 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:03:46
Well itÂ’s got to be good news, I am still not clear on exactly what his best role is !

I also assume he will be in contention for first team duty for the next pre-season game !

Even if he doesnÂ’t slot in to the Prem side, he will put pressure on the players ahead of him, should that be the case !

Welcome aboard Mo !

Al Reddish
6 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:12:02
Hope he snaps Slippy with his first tackle on him.
Kevin Rowlands
7 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:09:22
Have to say when you take into account we picked up McCarthy, Mirallas and Besic for about the same price as Lallana we are doing things right when it comes to being sensible in the transfer window, hopefully Bobbies got a few more nice suprises in store for us.
James Elworthy
8 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:16:25
Buy Lukaku and Traore and Atsu on loan please plus those youngsters Galloway and Henen.
Aidan Trimble
10 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:17:43
Looks like a cracking signing, and he doesnÂ’t strike me as the sort of lad whoÂ’ll be happy on the bench. His experience at the world cup will have made him hungrier for more plaudits and heÂ’ll want to be playing first team football ASAP.
Tony J Williams
11 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:16:27
At last...... is he any good?
Harold Matthews
12 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:11:37
Brilliant. Pleased for the lad too. He had his heart set on coming here. All action player who can throw in the odd wild tackle but should be a great asset. Odd that Roberto has signed a stranger but he probably did his homework at the World Cup and kept close to him since his arrival.
Julian Wait
13 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:24:06
Looks like an Everton player to me. Bit of McCarthy and a bit of Barry about him really. He was excellent in the World Cup.

e.g. vs. Argentina

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Uyy_vcx3GI

Colin Glassar
14 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:32:46
Kev, he was spotted yapping to Hibbo and Barkley the other day so if his English is poor I bet his scouse is brill by now.
Denis Richardson
15 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:32:00
Good to have it finalized. Where are all the moaners? Two permanent signings and itÂ’s not even August yet - this still Everton?

Kev #4, the lad grew up in Berlin and Hamburg so his English is probably better than half our squadÂ’s!

Onwards and upwards.

( did someone say need a striker?)

Keith Glazzard
16 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:39:04
He looks good in blue.
Derek Knox
17 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:36:16
Julian # 13

Thanks for the link mate, he certainly looks to be useful,good awareness and brilliant distributor of the ball .

Why do these clips on you tube, always have the most annoying tunes to accompany them ? I know you press the mute , but it doesnÂ’t quite seem the same with no background noises, ie. shouts ball hitting bar or post etc.0

Ken Buckley
18 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:37:59
I hope the lad settles well.
The little I have seen of him he seems a Grav/Cars cross. Now that could be interesting.
UP THE BLUES.
Micky Norman
19 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:43:25
He speaks pretty good English already.Interviewed on OS.
Phill Thompson
20 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:39:39
Looks like weÂ’ve got our "Rodwell" for 1/3 the price but obviously a bit more of an unknown re PL. This is what Roberto is good at , spotting , picking up youngsters and developing them.
Brent Stephens
21 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:42:23
Harold #12 "Odd that Roberto has signed a stranger but he probably did his homework at the World Cup"

Harold (my toffeewiki!), how did you pick up that Roberto didnÂ’t know him until WC?

Julian Wait
22 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:46:41
@Phil 20 - I agree, Rodwell should look at this lad and realize what a player he (Rodwell) could have been. Maybe he will one day, but thereÂ’s something hungry about Basic that makes me think that him and McCarthy are going to be regarded as a pair to be feared. Rodwell just never looked .... that bothered to be honest. Kind of like Fellaini when he stopped elbowing people, missing the right kind of aggression and desire.
Stephen Birch
25 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:53:53
http://www.evertonfc.com/home/

Seems to speak pretty good English already on the videos on the official site. Says Martinez was his biggest reason for coming.

Aidan Trimble
27 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:00:31
Comes across fantastically well in that interview. Good to see a young man who knows how to conduct himself and is prepared to refuse to answer certain questions. Welcome to Everton, Mo!
Clarence Yurcan
28 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:03:37
Unfortunately, his former club, Fenervacos (or whatever theyÂ’re called) were dumped out of the Europa League 2nd qualifying round last week. I assume he played in those matches, so he will be cup-tied and ineligible to play in the EL, which is probably more suited to his level than the weekly grind of the Prem.
David Chait
29 Posted 28/07/2014 at 17:58:14
Superb! Would like to see him and Mcarthy give a good run together! Can you imagine trying to get through them! Good he can also cover for CB so defends sorted for now and all efforts and money into a striker please!

Think we should give Rodwell a break. Good kid, brilliant teenager who moved like a Gizelle... Injuries and moving too early held him back in my opinion.

Brent Stephens
30 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:07:23
David, I googled "Gizelle" and it refers me to a porn star. Did you mean "gazelle" as in the antelope thingy? Or maybe you did mean that he moves like a porn star!
Tony Draper
31 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:02:09
From the information available this seems like a well thought through signing at a sensible fee.

Having another midfielder with a "bit of steel in his armoury" is no bad thing at all.

Just hope that he adjusts to the PL quickly, but if it takes a season then so be it.

Now letÂ’s get Romelu to get his pen out !

Brent Stephens
33 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:11:41
٢M! God, we make some shit decisions, donÂ’t we.
John Audsley
35 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:07:06
Clarence @28

Did he play in the Europa games or was he still on World Cup leave??

IÂ’m not so sure he has been playing but could be completely wrong

Dick Brady
36 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:09:36
We have a bit of an embarrassment of riches in central defensive midfield now with McCarthy, Barry, Besic, Gibson and Ledson all able to play there. I would imagine this all but ends the Rodwell returns rumors which is a shame in my opinion as I think thereÂ’s potential in him and I like seeing youth team players becoming regular starters for Everton.

What Roberto really needs to do now is sort out a striker. No more short term loan solutions either, sign a striker permanently and put and end to this problem.

It will be great if itÂ’s Lukaku but if not then so be it, find someone else.

Clarence Yurcan
37 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:15:43
John #35, thatÂ’s a good point. I didnÂ’t look at the Fenervacos lineup, I just was they were playing and assumed he was in it. Maybe his abscence is why they lost!
Kevin Rowlands
38 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:18:14
Well this fella seems to think heÂ’s a great signing for us... https://twitter.com/EdDzeko
Derek Knox
39 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:13:17
I would doubt very much if he played any Â’gamesÂ’ since the World Cup, and if you listen to RobertoÂ’s Interview on the OS, he does mention that he will be useful, with his experience, in the EL games.

I hope personally, that he will not wait too long before being introduced into the Prem games even if it is from the bench!

Kev Johnson
41 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:14:07
OK, so it turns out I was totally wrong about him not speaking English. Watching the OS interview, he looks like the kind of bloke you wouldnÂ’t really want to mess with, doesnÂ’t he? All good - we need a bit of iron in the soul.

Oh yeah, and for all your Bosnian Toffees out there:

I to je Everton, Everton fc, mi smo daleko najveći tim je svijet ikada vidio

Hajde ti blues!

Gerry Quinn
43 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:37:56
John Audsley #35
Just been on the Ferencvaros website and Besic wasn’t in the squad for either match – so he can play in the Europa for us!
Tony J Williams
46 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:47:47
The more I watch the You Tube clips, the more I think he will actually be a replacement for Ossie.
Colin Glassar
48 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:46:50
I always thought Bosnians came on a free. Clarence, he ainÂ’t cup tied.
Richard Farrington
49 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:35:45
Just checked Ferencvaros site and can confirm Besic hasnÂ’t played in the Europa League this campaign. They were knocked out by Croatian team Rijeka 3-1 on aggregate and our man didnÂ’t play, he hasnÂ’t played since The World Cup. Do you think Roberto would make such a foolish move, Clarence?
Brent Stephens
50 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:53:34
OS: "The Bosnian starred in the World Cup and was subsequently linked to a number of top clubs. But once he met Martinez he was convinced there was only one destination for him."

Assuming he met Roberto out in Brazil (only an assumption, but...), then so much for the criticism of Roberto being in Brazil when he should have been signing players!

Kev Johnson
51 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:44:55
Actually, I got the first one wrong, it should have been: "I to je Everton, Everton fc, mi smo daleko najveći tim je svijet ikada vidio". Silly me. It’s otherwise known as:

Link

The second one? Well, Toffee Lady Amanda Holden uttered the words with impressive gusto at the end of this Everton in the Community clip. (At 1:32, if you canÂ’t be bothered watching the whole thing.)

Link

Clarence Yurcan
52 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:58:26
Alright well that settles it then, I stand corrected! I predict Everton will win the EL, and Besic will be named man of the tournament!
Colin Glassar
53 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:00:28
Dobrodosli Besic.
Richard Farrington
55 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:03:29
Clarence, I would take that. Come on Bill, get us the striker we need. Defence and Midfield is looking very strong.
Wayne Smyth
56 Posted 28/07/2014 at 18:53:53
The main thing I hope he brings to the squad is a bit of a nasty streak. As a squad, weÂ’re far too nice, so this complements us quite nicely. My main worry for Besic is whether he can keep out of the refÂ’s book.

From his interview, he seems a very focused, serious individual and he has the same squinty stare as Roy Keane. Hopefully heÂ’ll turn into a quality midfielder like Roy did, and I think Martinez sees him as the long-term partner for McCarthy.

My main concern about the balance in the side is that McCarthy, Besic, Barry and Gibson all seem very like similar kinds of players. I really would love to see Martinez nab someone with some creativity to play centre mid, for when we play teams like Leicester who sit deep.

Jimmy Hill
57 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:02:50
Wow had a look on YouTube. Sorry Gerry Quinn heÂ’s more Howard Kendall for those who remember. If he plays like that, what an absolute steal. Well done Bobby.
Mike Hughes
58 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:03:04
Just watched the video and he appears to be quite a humble, level-headed lad.

I would echo AlÂ’s (#6) comments but in the 93rd minute when weÂ’re 3-0 up at their place.

Darren Hind
59 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:19:10
WOW ! Comparisons to Colin Harvey and Howard Kendal and he hasnÂ’t pulled the jersey on yet... What a truely brilliant player he must be

LetÂ’s welcome the lad and hope heÂ’s good enough to force his way into the first team on a regular basis and have a long and successful career at EFC.

Rob Halligan
60 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:28:28
LetÂ’s hope this transfer is like a bus, none for ages then 2 or 3, or even 4 all at once!!

Listening to Besic on OS seems like heÂ’s got his head screwed on. When asked what did Martinez say to him, he replied "itÂ’s between us". Not giving any secrets away, and then when asked about his ambitions for the season he didnÂ’t want to set any targets, just to make a good impression on the pitch. Also said he can play almost anywhere. LetÂ’s hope he can play in goal if Howard gets injured during a game!!

Duncan McDine
61 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:29:49
I wont pretend that I noticed him at the World Cup, especially as I missed the Argie game... but he looks the biz in that video. Sees the pass early, good awareness, great defensive positioning etc. I have a feeling this fella might be right up our street. Good luck Mo and welcome aboard!
Sam Hoare
62 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:33:26
Looks a very handy signing. We are well catered for now in our defensive units and just need some creativity, pace, movement and goals up front.
Derek Knox
63 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:43:56
Sam # 62

I note your comments and tend to agree, but one defensive position really worries me, the ultimate one!

As I have mentioned before, Tim Howard canÂ’t be expected to play every game, and letÂ’s not even think if he picked up an injury. Robles just simply is not good enough.

I couldnÂ’t understand also why Stanek never even got any sort of game time in either of the two pre-season games, while all other squad members were rotated!

I trust Roberto, but feel maybe he knows something or is there another surprise!

Rob Halligan
64 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:54:16
Problem with goalkeepers, Derek, is that they can only play in goal, nowhere else!

I personally would like Marshall from Cardiff (if heÂ’s still there that is). Look a very promising keeper but would he be prepared to sit on the bench most weeks?

Jamie Crowley
65 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:46:36
Thank God! IÂ’ve been checking TW every damn day for this.

I think this kid is going to be a steal.

He looks hard as shit.

I think this is going to be a fantastic signing. ItÂ’s exactly the kind of signing we need - buy the as of yet unheralded young talent cheap.

I trust RM to find these diamonds for years to come.

As others have said, now please, please go get Lukaku.

Rob Halligan
66 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:01:47
ItÂ’s been a nightmare, Jamie. Expect more to quickly follow though.
Derek Knox
67 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:00:35
Rob # 64

You are exactly right there mate!

"Problem with goalkeepers Derek, is that they can only play in goal, nowhere else!"

That is exactly my point, Robles canÂ’t ! With any degree of inspiring confidence either in the players in front of him, or us fans watching his poor positional sense!

Great shout on Marshall!

Richard Reeves
68 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:58:29
Great that he has finally signed. If heÂ’s as good as reports would suggest, then we have a very good defensive midfield partnership for years to come.

Hopefully Duffy can force his way into Martinez’s plans and –with Garbutt looking like he will be challenging Baines and Oviedo for the left back position – it’s looking like we are quite formidable from goalkeeper to defensive midfield with just the right back position needing strengthening as Hibbert and Stones can do a job but not at the level that we need.

Peter Murray
69 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:05:32
Great addition to the big midfield engine room needed for Europe/Premier League and Cup competitions.

As for Lukaku he is prolonging too much his hedging of bets. Time for Plan B and a different striker.

Harold Matthews
70 Posted 28/07/2014 at 19:59:41
Derek. Roberto signed Jindrich Stanek on the last day of January this year. He was 17, and, going by his own words, very much a novice. 6Â’-4" and initially blown away by the facilities at Finch Farm, he has been amazed with his own progress under the expert guidance of Inaki Bergara who has altered the way he sees his goalkeeping role whilst introducing him to new training methods and techniques. Right now heÂ’s a tall lad with big L plates. He probably needs more muscle and a bit more time.
Jamie Barlow
71 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:22:53
CanÂ’t wait to see if this lad can hack it in a big league. He seems like a no nonsense type of chap. I hope heÂ’s more McCarthy than Heitinga.
Brian Wilkinson
72 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:22:30
Sounds like a combination of Gravesen/Ferguson. Bring on the derby, at last we have a midfield with steel in it, as long as Gibson stays fit.
Joe O'Brien
73 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:28:42
Great to have him finally signed up. Got a feeling that heÂ’s going to be legend for us. A player with steel and skill. At the end of next season heÂ’ll be named the bargain of the season. Now for the arrival of big Rom please.
John Crawley
74 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:41:00
Think he is going to turn out to be very good signing. Surely nailed on to start in central midfield with Gibson in the Europa league games, based on MartinezÂ’s interview on the OS.
Derek Knox
75 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:46:43
Thanks for that information, Harold, and I take on board what you say, but (reiterating my point from before) why did they not even give the lad a chance, after taking him half-way across the world for a one-off game?

Everyone else got some game time in, except the Stanek lad.

John Crawley
76 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:57:07
Derek – and Barkley!
Derek Knox
77 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:00:15
John # 76

I donÂ’t think Barkley or Besic were ever down to play, and went because of the PR side to appease the sponsors, King Power, or, in our case, Chang!

Jon Miners
78 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:03:30
Excellent. I have a real good feeling about this boy. Martinez is really putting a squad with depth together.

Now for strikers. Whatever happened to Bony?

Paul Ellam
79 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:05:18
Just 4 or 5 more signing to go now...
Tim Greeley
80 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:00:10
Besic Instinct!!

Finally. Welcome aboard, kick some ass.

Rob Halligan
81 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:59:02
My point Derek was that you can have 2 top class goalkeepers, but can you keep them both happy?

Remember in the Â’70s when England had both Ray Clemence and, Peter Shilton I think it was, and they played alternate games, just to keep them both happy. That canÂ’t be good for instilling confidence in a back four towards their goalkeeper.

If, for arguments sake, we did sign Marshall from Cardiff, how long would it be before he decided to call it a day because he wasnÂ’t playing enough?

Gerry Quinn
82 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:18:39
Jimmy Hill – don’t disappoint me, Colin Harvey was my all time Everton hero – even wore his #10 shirt 24/7!

HeÂ’s a Colin, not a Howard.

Andrew Hawes
83 Posted 28/07/2014 at 20:56:06
Please!! ..."Sounds like a Gravesen/Ferguson"... "the new Colin Harvey" — If we are all honest, no-one has heard of this lad!

We have spent ٢ million on him, a Championship transfer amount at best. We paid ٣ million for Johnny Heitinga years ago and he wonÂ’t exactly go down as a legend, will he??

Besic is young enough and, without any evidence to prove otherwise, we will have to trust RobertoÂ’s instincts. ThereÂ’s players joining our nearest rivals for ١ and ٢ million that arenÂ’t even making the news ,yet we are trumpeting his arrival as some sort of second coming of Everton legends of times gone by!

It goes to prove what disappointing business we have done this summer when thereÂ’s such excitement about a player who is obviously going to take time like the Fellainis etc before him to settle into a new country and culture.

Our team of last season were short a striker (thatÂ’s with Lukaku in the squad) and a playmaker; in my opinion, we havenÂ’t addressed either with 3 weeks to kick-off.

Derek Knox
84 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:16:16
Rob # 81

Glad you brought that up, I have not got to remind you that we are involved on four fronts this season, so that will most probably be one game every four days or so, not to mention the travelling element!

So, hopefully you can see my concern, and two decent keepers could well be employed, without any dissent or (hopefully not) injury!

Tony Draper
85 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:16:04
Having now taken the time to go and have a look at a quite a few montages of "Our Mo" on youtube, IÂ’m very happy with RobertoÂ’s astute purchase. Looks very promising indeed and his style certainly appears very PL friendly.

His passing looks really accurate and instinctive (apart from one very unwise example).

His movement seems very intelligent.

His tackling looks bloody solid.

On this evidence, no wonder Roberto has tracked him for a couple of years, thanks ESPN for paying for RobertoÂ’s fact finding mission.

Tom R Owen
86 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:28:00
Gerry (#82)

Colin Harvey wore No 6.
John Hurst used to wear No 10.
Mo sounds more like a Howard Kendall — No 4.

Kev Johnson
87 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:32:25
TomÂ’s right. John Hurst was Number 10, for sure. God knows why, but he was.

By the way, I wish YouTube montages would give a swerve to players doing step-overs. TheyÂ’re no big deal. Anyone can do them - it depends whether thereÂ’s an end result. If not, they are pitifully naff.

When I played Sunday League, if an opponent did step-overs in front of me, I just thought "Yeah, yeah, get on with it, you bloody poser". Then I kicked him.

Rob Halligan
88 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:38:32
Then got sent off or thumped, eh, Kev?
Raymond Fox
89 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:10:47
I think Tony 46 has it right, he looks very much like a young Ossie.
Maybe jumping the gun, but I feel it wont be long till heÂ’s a regular first teamer, looks like a real asset to have in the squad.

Just been watching our last season highlights and its essential that we get Lukaku, he has that rare physical presence that gives defenders the willies.

Kev Johnson
90 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:47:31
Not at all, Rob. I won the ball with an immaculate tackle – a bit like Bobby Moore on Pele in the 1970 World Cup – and strode away majestically with the ball... a bit like Platini in his pomp. And, flicking the ball up, executed a powerful volley into the top corner – a bit like Lukaku next season for us.

Then I woke up.

John Audsley
91 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:52:25
Very happy with him signing and he clearly wants to play for RM. It will take him a while to settle and get used to the pace of the league but ٢M should be a bargain long term
Mark Pierpoint
92 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:53:39
Agree that this lad seems a class addition to the ranks. Skimmed through some of the responses, and like many I just hope that he adds a bit of bite to the midfield. As a club, certainly since the days of Carsley and Gravesen in the midfield, we have been too nice.

This guy looks to have an edge to him. I really liked his interview on the official site, respectful of Roberto and his new teammates who I am sure will get the best out of him.

Stale Haverstadlokken
93 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:00:30
http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/players/player=358101/statistics.html

Seems like we have got us a quality player at a decent price.

Rob Halligan
94 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:06:37
Who plays in goal for Southampton, and is he any good?

Everybody else seems to be buying their players so why donÂ’t we take a punt on their goalie?

Raymond Fox
95 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:49:32
Robles has been mentioned in the thread already, so IÂ’ll say a few words in his defence.

HeÂ’s a very good shot stopper, but his decision making is letting him down I admit. What he needs is match practice, no wonder heÂ’s rusty!

Problem is if heÂ’s making bloomers, like when Leicester scored, heÂ’s probably not going to get the games unless he goes on loan somewhere. ItÂ’s difficult for any 2nd choice goalie I suppose.

Tom Bowers
96 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:06:28
Certainly sounds like a defensive midfielder... which is good as, with Barry getting up in age and GibboÂ’s injuries, he will be a great acquisition. Just hope he settles in quickly to the Premier League pace.
Rob Baker
97 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:13:37
Besic comes across brilliantly on the OS video.

I hope to see plenty of him in our colours!!!

Phil Sammon
98 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:10:28
Raymond

I agree with you completely. Keepers need games in order to improve. It is so much more psychological than any other position. Experience is absolutely key. I think it makes sense to send him out on loan with an option to recall him.

Stanek can warm the bench for now and also represent the club at U21 level.

Jamie Crowley
99 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:01:40
Kevin 87,

That’s hilarious. In the men’s league I play in – and I certifiably suck never having even touched a soccer ball until aged 40 – when some douche starts his shitty Ronaldo impersonation with the step overs my eyes instinctively leave the ball and I look right at his mid-section so the prick can’t get by me (that’s how they teach it in hockey...). Then you just pull the "Oops! Sorry ’bout that, Ol’ friend, I was gong for the ball."

If some dude in a menÂ’s league (read pub league) is pulling that crap - if they were good enough to pull it off theyÂ’d not be playing in the old fart league IÂ’m in... kick em down... help em up - gotta be a gentleman about it after all...

Harold Matthews
100 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:59:58
The thing which pleases me most is the way we found Besic and Stanek. ie. Youth tournaments. Exactly the way recruitment boss Ian Atkins described last year.

Following RobertoÂ’s orders, he and his team watch youth tournaments worldwide and carefully monitor the progress of those they have earmarked. These lads will probably be followed by Henen and Galloway. What else is going on is anyones guess but itÂ’s all very exciting.

Gerry Quinn
101 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:19:41
You are correct guys – Harvey refused the #10 shirt because he thought it was an attacking midfielders number. My bad!

After all those years my memory is totally crap, and having worn the #10 shirt I played nothing like John Hurst – or Colin for that matter...

Raymond Fox
102 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:17:37
Phil, he looked a very decent keeper at Wigan in some important games for them last season.

As well as lacking match practice heÂ’s probably letting his nerves get the better of him when he does get a chance to play, and of course he knows as well as anyone when heÂ’s making mistakes which only adds to his anxiety.

Ross Hutchinson
103 Posted 28/07/2014 at 21:58:40
Extremely good news. Although we do need to build on this but nothing seems to be happening. The Lukaku sideshow keeps on rolling with no end in sight, will he? wont he? Nobody knows....? No news on Henin but he was heading for the under 18Â’s anyway.

Apart from these 2 and Traore there are no other genuine targets. If these guys are our only primary targets, whats happened to our transfer budget? Besic ٢M, Lukaku 㾾-22M, Benin ٠M and Traore ٟM loan which is a total of between 㿅-29M. I know this is normally huge for us but that budget only covers our remaining recouped sales from Fellaini 㾺M (knocking off the McCarthy buy), Jelavic ٤M and Anichebe ٤M.

I want to know what has happened to the large TV revenue and prize money we should have received in the last two seasons.

John Raftery
104 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:27:23
Hi Gerry – The first club to employ a defender in the Number 10 shirt in the mid 60’s was the RS. That player was Tommy Smith.

I saw him a couple of weeks ago in Crosby but resisted the temptation to exact retribution for the many heinous fouls he committed on our forwards.

John Raftery
105 Posted 28/07/2014 at 22:56:04
Ross – my guess is it has gone, or will be going, in players’ wages. The new contracts for the likes of Bainsey, Seamus and Howard will not have come cheaply. There are other players such as Stones and Barkley who will be offered improved terms. That will cost us.
Chad Schofield
106 Posted 28/07/2014 at 23:24:26
Great news!!! I like the fact that heÂ’s versitle so we can change systems as we do now have a real wealth of midfielders... Although with injuries, suspensions and extra games weÂ’ll need them all.

Excellent pass completion stats in the World Cup, but not just short Essien style 2-10 yard passes.

Absolute steal at rumoured price. Welcome aboard Mo!

Ant Dwyer
107 Posted 29/07/2014 at 00:04:53
Great news that this deal has finally been concluded. IÂ’ve only ever seen this kid once or twice in the World Cup so IÂ’m unable to pass judgment on him. The YouTube clips look good, the reports sound great, and his games during World Cup seemed solid to say the least.

I wouldnÂ’t ever buy on the above info as if we were too you may end up with El Hagi Diouf or Phil Babb!!!

That said, I have faith in Bobby and would like to believe he knows an awful lot more than me who to spend our money on, so I must say IÂ’m more than happy with our acquisition.
Welcome aboard, Mo!

Gerry Quinn
108 Posted 29/07/2014 at 00:34:48
John #104 - good job he didnÂ’t pass by me when I was in Crosby with you - I wouldnÂ’t have held back so politely :)
Andrew Hawes
109 Posted 29/07/2014 at 00:31:57
If I was told at the end of the season that, come 29 July, we would be jumping for joy at the signing of an unknown 21-year-old from the Hungarian league, who to date was our only new signing, I wouldn’t have believed it and would have been disgusted!! Well... Guess what — I AM DISGUSTED!!

Get a grip people!! "The new Colin Harvey"??? Up until a month ago, not one Everton fan had ever heard of him and now he is some reincarnation of past everton legends?? I am sure the lad has potential but will also take time to fit into a new country and culture.

Christ, we have been talking about Champions League?? We can talk about what we do and donÂ’t need financially but ٢ million on transfers doesnÂ’t move us anywhere but backwards!! 㿊 million minimum is what we should expect with our TV revenue, player sales, and keeping our fucking powder dry??

Lukaku and one other major signing at the very least or itÂ’s glass ceiling time again!!

Karl Masters
110 Posted 29/07/2014 at 00:55:27
Good news and IÂ’m sure a whole month earlier than we normally sign anyone!

Will the moaners at least give it a rest for a day or two now?

Patrick Murphy
111 Posted 29/07/2014 at 01:01:53
Karl, don’t be daft – that can’t possibly happen. I mean it’s been some six hours since we signed anyone what is Bill doing with all that money we have in the safe / biscuit tin under his bed. We need to be pro-active and start bringing in new faces on an hourly basis – without at least another 50 or so new players we are doomed to miss out on the CL places and everything will turn to dust. :)

Karl Masters
112 Posted 29/07/2014 at 01:13:02
ItÂ’s also simple, Patrick!

One new player an hour and it will be all be sorted by breakfast this morning.

Why canÂ’t the Club see this?????

Michael Kenrick
113 Posted 29/07/2014 at 01:52:58
Great news indeed that this signing has finally gone through. In that picture, he looks just a bit like Christian Ronaldo! HereÂ’s hoping...

IÂ’ve tried not to comment on the abject level some posters descend to... but to bitch and moan ten to the dozen, for what seems like months on end, about the lack of new signings, and then state that you are Â’disgustedÂ’ with this excellent singing of Mo Besic... well it sickens me to the core. What the fuck is wrong with you people? (Yes, Andrew Hawes, IÂ’m talking about your astounding post @ #109.)

Earlier, you comment that the fee is "a Championship transfer amount at best." Somebody needs to respond to this utter drivel... what would you call Seamus Coleman at $60k? Such negativity is unbelievable! Then you add: "without any evidence to prove otherwise, we will have to trust RobertoÂ’s instincts." A face-palm moment if ever there was one.

Yes, I hate it as well when people have to match current players with those of yesteryear — a totally meaningless exercise — but the transfer window still has plenty of life left in it. Please allow it to run its course, and even then, don’t prejudge the signings (what is the point?). You’ve heard this lad state he signed for Everton because of Roberto Martinez. Let’s see what he can do in a Royal blue Everton shirt under his tutelage (hopefully with a suitable allowance of time to bed in, please).

Tony Skelly
114 Posted 29/07/2014 at 02:49:10
We have a very good player here, potentially ...

http://thepremierleagueowl.com/everton-steal-muhamed-besic-and-make-the-rest-of-the-league-blush/

Matthew White
115 Posted 29/07/2014 at 03:07:28
I can see what Andrew is saying.. It seems everyone has pre-judged this kid as being some sort of superstar without actually knowing anything about him.

Positive signing, yes, but IÂ’d rather see the kid play in a blue shirt before making any judgments positive or negative...

We still need to invest in a proven creative CM and Lukaku.

Brian Wilkinson
116 Posted 29/07/2014 at 03:20:50
Andrew@83 my comparison with Graveson/Ferguson is his reputation, a verocious tackler and a short fuse as well, looks a decent player but sure to pick up a few yellow cards along the way.
Brian Wilkinson
117 Posted 29/07/2014 at 03:32:42
He wont have to wait long before Gibson breaks down again for his chance, great back up, now if only we could get Kone off the sick bed, hes going to beat Darren Andertons record of sick notes Kone.

Feel free to call me dr doom but I cannot be the only Blue praying we get a season out of Gibson.

Julian Wait
118 Posted 29/07/2014 at 03:46:44
Posted it on another thread ealrier, but what about Valbuena that QPR are in for? He seemed like a livewire AM/Winger for France in the World Cup, although he visibly tired and/or met his match against Germany (and we saw what they did to Brazil in the next game). Might even be affordable?
Steve Mink
119 Posted 29/07/2014 at 04:06:00
This lad is a diamond. Moves the ball quickly and takes a position. Better than Rodders at a quarter of the price.

IÂ’m not bothered about lack of No9. I think the way we play Mirallas could do a job

Think Lukaku no longer quite does the job for us.

Steve Brown
120 Posted 29/07/2014 at 04:43:46
Since when is signing a midfielder who impressed in the WC a bad deal at ٢m? Should we be signing Lovren and Lallana for 㿙m instead? Should we emulate the schmucks down the road, paying ridiculous fees for average players?

TW has this debate every pre-season, but I would hold up our transfer dealings up over the last few years against most. LetÂ’s hold our nerves for at least a couple more weeks.

Harold Matthews
121 Posted 29/07/2014 at 05:09:50
True Steve. I was hoping we could get Lovren but his fee hit me like a sledgehammer. Unbelievable. Like Besic heÂ’s got that certain look about him but @ ٢m our lad will do just fine.
Derek Knox
122 Posted 29/07/2014 at 05:45:43
Hello again Harold, that was a strange affair, over the Loic Remy transfer at Liverpool.

They, ( RS ) implying it was over the medical, and Harry quite plausibly ( for once ) saying that he has at least four similar medicals, in the last year. Marseilles, QPR,Newcastle and for the French National team just prior to the WC !

I, like you, have always believed that Lukaku ,would eventually arrive, but this has been protracted beyond all comprehension .

I am also a bit skeptical as to the dialogue , supposedly emanating from Everton about alternatives etc. More worryingly so, Roberto saying that LukakuÂ’s contributions will not be forgotten, but that was last season etc.

WouldnÂ’t it be ironic if, the aforementioned Monsieur Remy ,turned out to be one of those alternatives , should the unthinkable happen ?

It would certainly spice up interest in the Derbies !

I note also, having brought up the subject of Goalkeepers for this season coming , that we have been linked with a move for Reading keeper Alex McCarthy !

Michael Penley
123 Posted 29/07/2014 at 06:00:24
Julian - IÂ’d love to have Valbuena at Goodison. Playing for France he looked like a hyperactive and more skilful Ossie, buzzing around and getting involved all over the park. Only downside is his height, but if Ossie can cope with the physicality of the Premier League (some might argue he canÂ’t) then Valbuena can.
Harold Matthews
124 Posted 29/07/2014 at 06:39:14
Hi Derek. Interesting post. Much needed. (Ed. had word in my ear for getting off subject.)

Yeah. This Remy business is a strange affair. Feel a bit sorry for the lad. Something to do with the heart I believe but Harry didnÂ’t mention it. Very talented lad who knows where the net is.

On the Lukaku thing. YouÂ’re right. It was quite strange. Martinez deliberately referred to him in the past tense. "He was here, he was a great bloke, now letÂ’s move on." sort of thing. Transfer tactics? I wouldnÂ’t know. ItÂ’s certainly got us all tied up in knots.

Harold Matthews
125 Posted 29/07/2014 at 07:09:52
Derek. Sorry mate. Had to split my post in two. Once I cease typing blow the bottom of the comment box, the whole post returns to its original position and IÂ’m left to fiddle with arrows and pointers. WhereÂ’s Julian when you need him?

Alex McCarthy eh? Interesting. A proper goalie. Does he still have his diamond business and celebrity girlfriends? Much more assured than Robles who is a bag of nerves and would be a good backup for Howard. Our ace goalie coach would bring him on a ton. Amazing bloke. Where did Roberto find this guy?

Aiden Doyle
126 Posted 29/07/2014 at 07:36:20
Given that RemyÂ’s move to Marseille was nearly called off because of a (possible) heart defect I wouldnÂ’t be so sure about ArryÂ’s plausibility over the Remy thing.
Adam Luszniak
128 Posted 29/07/2014 at 08:43:04
I think this is a good signing. Given that our midfield partnership of Mcarthy and Barry seemed to make the team tick last season whilst allowing the more attacking players to do their job, I can only see cover at CM as a necessity especially considering we have more games to play this season. Besic looks like he covers nearly as much ground as Mcarthy, isnÂ’t afraid of a tackle and whatÂ’s more, from his youtube WC clips he looks willing to make forward runs with the ball, something we donÂ’t necessarily see that often from Barry or Mcarthy.

All in all heÂ’s another string to the bow and he looks like a good one!

Andrew Hawes
129 Posted 29/07/2014 at 10:00:59
Well, maybe "disgusted" was a strong word to use. Maybe really disappointed would have been a better comment. I stand by the fact that he is a player unheard of up until a month ago and felt the need to comment when half the posts were comparing him to all sorts of past greats.

On what basis? A 2 minute clip on YouTube where a step over is repeated 6 times? Or 3 very average games in the World Cup? Very Cristiano Ronaldo, donÂ’t you think Micheal #113?

My point was a 4 million signing is not what we expected at this stage of pre-season. What I expected was the 5 or 6 quality players that Roberto insisted he needed only 3 months ago. I am glad we have signed him but not at the expense of the playmaker and forward-thinking players even Roberto himself has stated we desperately need.

I am all for optimism but sometimes you have to say it how it is. Besic and Barry in with 3 weeks to go is not good enough! Not when you see what our nearest rivals have done to improve.

If that " sickens" people tough because guess what it sickens me too!

Michael Evans
130 Posted 29/07/2014 at 13:09:52
IsnÂ’t every transfer a punt, roll of the dice etc irrespective of the fee ?

Based on that premise, why the negativity over this lad ?

Coleman @㿨k -embarrassing purchase by a once great Club reduced to buying players for pub team fees ?

No ?

If WE had purchased Torres at the time for 㿞 million then weÂ’d all have been wetting ourselves with anticpation at the goals he was going to score. Title would have been nailed on.

That transfer didnÂ’t turn out too well, did it ?

Ste Traverse
131 Posted 29/07/2014 at 13:37:42
Did we really need another holding midfielder?

WeÂ’ve already got three.

Drew Shortis
132 Posted 29/07/2014 at 13:33:38
Looks like a fantastic signing for ٢m. Just been watching the Nigeria and Argentina highlights and this lad will add something extra to our midfield. I remember not too long ago we were resorting to playing Neville, Heitinga and Osman in the centre of the park. Now we can take our pick from Besic, McCarthy, Barry and Gibson! Real strength in depth, just what is needed for the Europa campaign.

Now if we can sort out a couple of strikers we will be set for a good season. Lukaku on a permanent deal, Traore on loan and perhaps an other right winger (Atsu on Loan or Bahoui for a reasonable price). I see that Tadic has signed for Southampton. Shame as I thought he would be ideal for us.

Jimmy Hill
133 Posted 29/07/2014 at 18:56:09
Sorry Michael 113 and Andrew 109 past players and teams are the yardsticks for judging players style of play. ThatÂ’s where the comparison stops. Whether they reach the heights that that make these past players legends only time will tell.

This guy for me looks like he has great defensive qualities, with good control and passing and in my humble view a similar style to Kendall. If he turns out half as good we will be happy.

Totally agree on the other points you make, Michael.


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