Everton land Klaassen from Ajax

Thursday, 15 June, 2017 210comments  |  Jump to most recent
PHILIPPE DESMAZES/AFP/Getty Images
Dutch midfielder Davy Klaassen is an Everton player after he agreed personal terms with the club and a £24m move from Ajax.

The 24-year-old captain of the Amsterdam side had been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League this summer after his stellar season with Ajax and the Blues were leading the chase for his signature.

As talk escalated this week that Everton were stepping up their efforts to land Klaassen, leading the paper De Telegraaf to claim yesterday that, while finalising the transfer may take until the end of the week, the deal is "all but done."

The Netherlands international underwent a medical at Finch Farm today as the deal with Ajax was agreed and he was unveiled as Everton's second signing of the day following the confirmation of Jordan Pickford's move from Sunderland.

“I spoke a few weeks ago with Ronald Koeman about Everton," Klaassen told evertontv. "I wanted to come here and check if this was the right club for me and since I came here I feel so happy. It's a great club.

“The moment that I spoke with the manager directly I got a good feeling. He's an honest guy, we talked about the Club, about the way he wants to play and that gave me a positive feeling.

“I talked to him about the Club and everything we want to achieve and he was really positive. It's difficult to leave Ajax but I think this is a good step for me now and I'm really looking forward to my time here.”

 

Reader Comments (210)

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Paul Kossoff
2 Posted 14/06/2017 at 16:59:47
Is this guy a direct replacement for Ross? If we get 㿔 million for Ross, then the fee for Klaassen shouldn't matter if he's a step up.

Last season he made 49 appearances, 33 league, 16 Europe, scored 14 league goals and 6 in Europe.

Graham Lloyd
3 Posted 15/06/2017 at 03:07:26
I think, if this transfer comes off, we could have an absolute great player on our hands. What a sweet midfield:

Schneiderlin Gueye Davies Klaassen – just purrs like a Rolls Royce.

I also feel we could always play 4 in midfield as we would be so strong

Will Mabon
4 Posted 15/06/2017 at 04:43:20
I've watched about everything there is featuring him online. He looks very good, very competent without appearing hugely skilful.

Finds space well and doesn't seem to need close skills as he usually is pulled away from players. Passes well, looks up and good awareness of what's going on around the pitch. A very involved player, much of their play goes through him. Not particularly quick.

Hard to know exactly how he'd fare in the Premier League, he'd be under much more opposition pressure. There's no failing to notice the lower standard of defending in the Eredivisie. Dear me, what happened? Hope we don't buy any defenders from Holland.

David Chait
7 Posted 15/06/2017 at 09:51:27
So personal terms agreed. Getting very close this one.
James Morgan
8 Posted 15/06/2017 at 10:13:13
It's like being a kid at Christmas again! We might not be shopping at Harrods but it's at least Marks & Spencer!
Ray Roche
9 Posted 15/06/2017 at 10:17:33
Yes, James, and it's a step up from Sainsbury's. (I shouldn't really knock Sainsbury's – they keep the Riff Raff out of Waitrose.)
Terry White
10 Posted 15/06/2017 at 15:35:01
All good players, Graham (#3), but I don't see any balance there.

Who is going to play wider on the right? Who is going to play wider on the left? It looks to me as if they will all want to be up-the-middle players with Schneiderlin at the back. So, maybe three spread in front of him?

This is a problem that we had at the tail end of last season. At Arsenal Baines had nobody playing in front of him early in the game giving Bellerin acres of space to run into and eventually score.

Andrew Ellams
11 Posted 15/06/2017 at 15:38:22
There is no way all four of those players will be starting. He will play 4-3-3 and I can't help thinking Gana will be the man to miss out at the start of the season.
Mark Frere
12 Posted 15/06/2017 at 15:47:03
This is not really a player I'm excited about. I don't watch the Dutch league but from what I've read about this player and what Erik Dols says, he's not really the playmaker we need. He's more of a box to box player, similar to Gana and Davies, but is capable of playing in a more advanced role.

Hakim ziyech is considered Ajax's playmaker and best player. Why this player has never been picked up by us or any of the bigger clubs around Europe is a mystery to me. He's been around a while but still young and a better option than Klaassen, surely?

Eric Myles
13 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:01:31
And no pineapple either Gordon.
Mike Gaynes
14 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:03:13
Actually, Mark #16, the reverse is true. Ziyech is the box-to-box, Davies-style player. Excellent ballwinner, but not really what we need right now.

Klaassen is the playmaker in the middle, making the decisions. He's intended to fill the #10 role. Not sure if he has the assertiveness to do it in the Prem, but he certainly has the skills.

As for Ajax's "best player", no contest... it's the young center back Sanchez. Kid is a giant with skills. PSG or Bayern in his future.

James Stewart
15 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:04:05
Klaassen strikes me as a Davies replacement: box-to-box, more experience than young Tom who will still get plenty of game time. Have to say not the area I would have strengthened first but let's see who else follows.

Paul Holmes
16 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:04:24
I can only judge Klaassen in the Europa final against Utd and he was, let's be honest, anonymous.

He must be better than that but with the top teams playing us early in the season we will quickly find out what 20 million gets you from the Dutch league.
Gordon Crawford
17 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:11:44
Eric (#17) now I'm depressed, I forgot about pineapple and sweetcorn also. :(
Ajay Gopal
18 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:12:14
Hopefully, he turns out good for us, but I agree with some of the comments above – does he bring something that our current midfielders lack? Looking at the list of midfielders currently on our books:

Barry
Schneiderlin
Gana
Davies
McCarthy
Besic
Barkley
Klaassen (if it happens)

Where is the guile? Where is the width?

But I trust in Koeman – obviously. He is probably banking on selling Barkley and McCarthy (or Besic, or both). Barry will probably be used sparingly. Hopefully he will get in a creative midfielder with a few goals in him. Sigurdsson? Lanzini? Behrami? Rooney????

Mark Frere
19 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:12:33
Well, Mike, that's not what I've read and heard before. Ziyech is a very creative player from what I gather. I guess we need Erik Dols to clear that one up. I do remember reading that Erik did say Klaassen could well struggle with the pace of Premier League. But I guess the same goes for any player coming from the Dutch League.

Ajax's best player? I guess that's subjective; many would say Dolberg perhaps?

John Daley
20 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:15:18
Marc,

Whilst he might match their energy and endeavour, Klaassen is a completely different type of player to both Gana and Davies.

The only comparable type Everton have had, in recent(ish) years, would have to be Tim Cahill, simply because both he and Klaassen share the seemingly innate ability to constantly find space and pop up in the right place. Although the Ajax man is clearly much better on the ball than Cahill ever was and is also excellent at keeping play ticking over, receiving and moving it on without the hesitation and need for a handful of touches most of the current squad seem hampered by.

Personally, if it were a choice between him and Sigurdsson (a sometimes sluggish player who a lot of Everton supporters seem enamoured by) I would plump for Klaassen, as I believe he has the potential to improve even further, possesses leadership qualities the older Swansea man does not and his ability to find the back of the net regularly from midfield isn't propped up by a potency from set pieces.


Matt Muzi
21 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:18:51
If he signs, its a positive signing & I'll look to give my opinion on him in the new year.
Anyone heard any news on Sandro?
Gordon Crawford
22 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:23:02
Sounds good Mike (25) Yeah reports are that he is very strong and can tackle as Tevez found out. :)
Gordon Crawford
23 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:25:12
Matt (29) nothing on Sandra; heard she makes a great cupcake though. Lol
Andrew Ellams
24 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:25:43
I read somewhere that Sandro is going to make a decision after the U21 championships. Whether Koeman will wait that long with Walsh checking out other options in Italy, who knows.

http://www.insidefutbol.com/2017/06/15/everton-target-wants-to-focus-on-under-21-european-championship/340145/

Christopher Wallace
25 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:27:45
Andrew 14

Those 4 mentioned could easily start together:

Davies, Gana, Schneiderlin across the middle - Klaasen free role of the striker, with another attacking player

Gordon Crawford
26 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:30:02
The Sandro deal doesn't fill me with confidence. I could be wrong but I think he is hoping for a better offer from someone other than Everton.
Andrew Ellams
27 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:30:52
Christopher, is he really the sort of player we want playing No 10? Guile isn't really his strength and that is what we need in that position. That's why a Sigurdsson type player would suit better whilst Klaassen plays the Frank Lampard-style central midfielder drifting-into-the-box role.
Christopher Wallace
28 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:32:12
Off topic - Donnarumma won't be signing new contract at AC.

Was Walshy over tapping him up as back up to Jordan Pickford??

Sam Hoare
29 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:34:53
Mike @20, think you've got that wrong no? Ziyech is most definitely a playmaker and ended last season with the most assists in the league. He plays mainly as a winger or wide midfielder.

If anything, it is Klaassen who is more box-to-box. I agree about Sanchez. He looks a player.

Mike Gaynes
30 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:36:16
Mark (#28), those were my impressions drawn from watching them a few times this year. Not saying Ziyech isn't creative, sweet left foot, but he's definitely the runner/tackler of the two.

I remember the Dolberg comment too, and I can't argue with his belief that Ziyech is the better player. But he has never been a #10. That's Klaassen.

Re Ajax's best player, Sanchez won their POY at age 20, Dolberg the YPOY at 19. Two fabulous talents obviously. But Sanchez is currently more advanced... turned down Barca last year and they're reportedly in for him again. Dolberg's staying another year at Ajax.

James Morgan
31 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:36:28
Supposedly this will be done very soon and we have agreed £16m for Niang and expect to still move for Sigurdsson, Keane and a few more in Italy.
Christopher Wallace
32 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:45:36
Andrew,

I agree with you there – I am still hoping for a better quality No 10.

Klaassen can play both roles, as can Gylfi (sign him up). Plenty of games this season, so the more options, the better!

I'm very excited to see what other attackers we sign, and hopefully Bolasie making full recovery – good times!

Mike Gaynes
33 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:46:49
Sam #37, yep, Ziyech is a winger and got lots of assists on crosses to Dolberg. From what I saw it was often Klaassen releasing Ziyech with through balls for those crosses.

Guess we just differ on terminology. To me "playmaker" is a synonym for the #10 in the middle.

Sam Hoare
34 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:52:51
Fair enough, Mike. For me the playmaker is whoever is creating the chances and goals. Of course its possible (i think) that you might have more than one per team. For Man City I would say both De Bruyne and Silva are playmakers.

Out of curiosity I had a look at the stats (not that they can be relied upon) and Ziyech played more passes per match and twice as many 'key' passes.

I like Klaassen but I wouldn't mind Ziyech instead. Or as well.

Gareth Clark
35 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:54:37
Pickford
Kenny Keane Williams Baines
Idrissa Schneiderlin Klaassen
Barkley Sigurdsson
Sandro

Davies on the bench

How we will line up with the current deals that look like they will go ahead.

I do expect a lot more ins and outs.

Erik Dols
36 Posted 15/06/2017 at 16:55:06
Mike and Mark (and all the others), let me clarify.

Klaassen, as he has played the last two seasons at Ajax is certainly more a box to box player and not a creative playmaker. But like many things in life, this is not black-and-white.

Klaassen is different from Gana and Davies. He is far more attacking minded compared to Gana and more aware, more playing with his head when put next to Davies. Currently I wouldn't compare him to any of our midfielders actually, in that sense Klaassen would add something to our options.

I think Cahill might be the best to compare him with, although this is not a perfect fit as well. One of the biggest assets of Klaassen is his footballing intelligence, he "sees" the game, especially when attacking. He pops up at the right place just as Cahill did so often.

The longer I think of it, the harder I find it to label Klaassen...

And BTW, most of last season, Ziyech certainly was the playmaker for Ajax. Maybe not in the traditional Number 10 role.

Steve Ferns
37 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:04:01
I would agree, the playmaker is usually the guy in the middle, which in England is usually in a Number 10 position. However, the best playmakers on the continent usually play a lot deeper, such as the once again linked Ever Benega (more good days behind him than ahead of him now, I am afraid) or Joao Moutinho, or Xavi. This is more the Schneiderlin position, taking it off the back 4 and giving it wide or getting it forward.

However, Arteta was undoubtedly our playmaker in the best of the Moyes years, where Cahill, Neville and Carsley would often operate in the middle of the park and two of Arteta, Osman or Pienaar would operate on the wings, with Arteta frequently being the one getting on the ball from the right wing and trying to dictate play.

At Ajax, I couldn't comment, but from what I have read it does sound like it is Klaassen who gets his foot on the ball and dictates the play.

If I was to guess on a play-maker role, then I would assume Koeman would play two holding midfielders from Schneiderlin, Gueye and Davies, whilst Klaassen or Sigurdsson would be in the Number 10 role. Then we'd have maybe Barkley wide right, and Mirallas left, with Lookman, Bolasie, Deulofeu and Calvert-Lewin as other options.

Dominic Tonge
38 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:05:10
Klaassen, from what I have seen, seems to be a cross between Cahill and Naismith, also – he looks like Naismith.
Lee Brownlie
39 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:13:02
Really exciting prospect, Klaassen coming to the Blues!

I've been watching him on YouTube and love how quick he gets into those dangerous positions, finds space and, maybe especially, has that great goalscorer's knack of hitting (or heading!) for goal often first time, giving the keeper no time to set himself.

A couple or so more buys like this and, yeah.. wow.. bring on the new season!!!

Martin Reppion
40 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:21:03
Ray (#9),

If you're going to quote Stephen Fry, at least acknowledge where you've pinched that excellent gag from!

Mike Gaynes
41 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:48:42
Erik (#36), thanks for clarifying, much appreciated.

Steve (#37), I like your thinking. Could even use Barkley as part of a triad in the middle of the field with Klaassen and the striker. But I do view Klaassen's role as more in the Modric/De Bruyne mold than working in off the wings, à la Arteta or Messi, and certainly not as deep-lying as a Xavi.

Mike Gaynes
42 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:50:11
Gareth (#35), hard to see Sigurdsson coming in if we sign Klaassen.
Craig Walker
43 Posted 15/06/2017 at 17:57:09
I don't know much about Klaassen but I hope he's better than other Dutch players we've had down the years: the likes of Atteveld, Van der Meyde and Drenthe.

Encouraging that we're trying to get players recruited early in the window.

Fran Mitchell
44 Posted 15/06/2017 at 19:25:04
Goals and assists are what we need most from midfield.

Barkley is likely off, and he never was as clinical as we would have liked. It is easy to say "I'd prefer x, y or z" but for once we actually seen to have our targets and we are pushing ahead with them.

Also, those looking at the starting 11. Thing of he past. We may play 50+ games this season – and hopefully seasons to come. We need a squad.

Steve Mink
45 Posted 15/06/2017 at 19:32:00
I guess all of this is driving the price for Ross down to next to nowt.

Good shout above re Sanchez.

Paul Kossoff
46 Posted 15/06/2017 at 20:23:29
Both Davy Klaassen and M'Baye Niang were at USM Finch Farm today. Davy Klaassen underwent an Everton medical. (Source: Liverpool Echo)
Alex Jones
47 Posted 15/06/2017 at 20:26:17
I watched him in a reasonable number of games last season and I think he's a player that you don't really notice as he does simple things well but doesn't offer anything special or do anything unexpected.

Personally I think we have enough of these kind of players and I want a playmaker who will do the extraordinary as that's what sets apart the best teams.

They have that creative player who can unlock a team who have parked the bus.

Klaassen is a poorer version of Barkley and I'd be very disappointed if he's his replacement. He'll work harder but again we don't need more work horses.

Lev Vellene
48 Posted 15/06/2017 at 20:28:10
Pickford confirmed, then two new medicals reported today. And my calendar clearly says mid-June!

This is getting spooky, I think I'll retreat to the broom closet until the world gets back to normal!

Paul Kossoff
49 Posted 15/06/2017 at 20:30:57
Everton are now making their move to land Niang and boost their attacking options, though it's claimed that he has asked for time to think about the move and consider his options.

Given his patchy record across his career and his unfulfilled potential, Niang would be hard-pressed to find a better offer than with Everton, where Walsh is a huge fan having also tried to sign him with Leicester City in 2016.

Cheeky get! Tell him 12 noon tomorrow – sign or forget it! No idea why Koeman wants him.

Jay Harris
50 Posted 15/06/2017 at 20:52:06
Seems to have been confirmed –Klaassen has passed his medical and signed a 5-year deal at Finch Farm – and allegedly Niang is there too.
Brent Stephens
51 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:25:23
5-year deal signed is being reported.
Brent Stephens
52 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:26:31
FFS, why can't we get on with it. Only 2 signed so far?
Colin Glassar
53 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:32:07
Klaasen will be class trust me. What's happening with Sandro? All gone a bit quiet hasn't it?
Brian Williams
54 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:36:19
Said that yesterday Colin. He's either gone away to think about it or simply "gone away."
James Doran
55 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:42:04
We need a new left back.
Nigel Johnson
56 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:50:03
Everton look like they have learnt from last summer. I'll start eating my hat; I didn't think Everton would do transfer business so soon.

Hat's off to Steve, Koeman and the board. Just need to resolve the Barkley and Lukaku issues and continue moving forward so that all the new players are in place for pre-season.

Great players so far – Everton look better already

John Smith
57 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:56:50
Apparently we just signed him on a 5-year deal. 㿆 million.
Nigel Munford
58 Posted 15/06/2017 at 21:58:32
Brent, love the patience in your post. I believe things are going very well at the moment.
Mike Allison
59 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:01:00
Just confirmed by the club.
Jamie Morgan
60 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:02:09
Confirmed on Sky Sports! Welcome Davy!
Denis Richardson
61 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:05:21
At this rate looks like we could be getting 5 or 6 players in this window, and all first teamers.

Presume RKs looking to also ship a fair few out. Wouldn't be surprised to see the likes of Lukaku, Barkley, Besic, McCarthy, McGeady etc all gone come September. Personally won't be fussed to see the back of'em.

Tony Hill
62 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:06:23
Great news. Difficult to keep up.
Joe Clitherow
63 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:06:27
Confirmed on Sky.
David Barks
64 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:07:08
This is much better.
Shane Corcoran
65 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:07:35
On the official Facebook page. Snazzy.
Mike Allison
66 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:08:05
I think we were after five without anyone important leaving. If Lukaku and Barkley go then five won't be enough. In a sense, Lukaku, Valencia and Kone all need replacing.
Kristian Boyce
67 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:11:23
Good lord, we've spent about 㿣 million today.
James Morgan
68 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:12:55
Jamie #60, nice name!

Welcome Davy! Two in and about five more at least due in at seems.

Lemina from Juventus is one apparently as well as Niang. Looks like Italy will be a big source for our players this summer.

Tom Bowers
69 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:14:00
Have to say this could be a real coup. This guy playing alongside Gana and in front of Schneiderlin could really up the quality of midfield and could see Barkley decide to leave if he isn't up for the fight.
Soren Moyer
70 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:15:26
Well done, Ron. Only need 5 more signings lol. Billy must be MAD now!
John Smith
71 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:17:50
Sam Hoare
72 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:18:18
Wow. Busy day! Feels like we might not be getting the best value but hard to tell till the end of the window and ultimately till we see what these players do over their Everton careers here.

Curious to see where Klaassen will play given our wealth of centre mods as am not sure he is an out an out playmaker. But all-in-all, pretty exciting stuff!

Colin Glassar
73 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:21:10
I need to be pinched.
Kristian Boyce
74 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:21:31
I had to check my calendar as it seems like its August 31st!!

Unfortunately, as it's so early and players are on their hols, we won't get one of those cheesy group pictures of the new signings.

Jamie Morgan
75 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:25:55
James (#68). Yes, mate I know! I double take every time I see your name post on here! Small world!
Daniel Joseph
76 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:27:52
I'm shittin' myself over all this! I don't ever remember in my 57 years anything like this - even £ for £ over the years.

I don't know what to do? Sit in a corner strumming my bottom lip or running naked around the Pier Head?!?!?!?!

Garry Corgan
77 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:29:21
Only half an hour to go til the 11pm cut off and the transfer window slams shut!

...wait, is it not August 31st?!

James Hughes
78 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:30:37
Daniel, go for the latter, but wear some speedos.
Colin Glassar
79 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:32:09
I miss the good old days of Marcus Bent and Anferny Gardner. Far more exciting than this.
Gavin Johnson
80 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:32:14
So another player signed and more to come. Feels great to be finally conducting ourselves like a 'big' club again.
Soren Moyer
81 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:32:53
Daniel Joseph (#76),

First one please... lol.

Stephen Scofield
82 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:33:39
I've traced this all back to Trump getting elected; nothing has been normal since. Very much enjoying this new "sign before the window opens" mentality!

You can tell I am an Evertonian, though, as a bit of me is a little sad that Deadline Day won't be a busy disappointment.

Alex Parr
83 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:37:04
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40297081

Signed, £23.6m

Welcome Davy!

Sean Smythe
84 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:38:14
Koeman likes his pressing and productivity.
Joe Foster
85 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:39:12
I must have woke up today in some strange parallel universe.
Mark Melton
86 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:40:22
Is it just me, or is this some early business to convince Lukaku and Barkley to stay?
Phil Bellis
87 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:42:14
As someone who remembers "Scott signs for Spurs!"... Bring it on; the sleeping giant awakes... About fucking time, un all!
Martin Nicholls
89 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:42:45
Stephen (#82) – "sign before the window opens"? I know what you're getting at but you're risking a slap on the wrist from TW's very own transfer window expert (MM) with a statement like that!

Only joking, Mark!!

Rob Halligan
90 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:43:02
I'm still none the wiser as to how this bloody transfer window works? Is 1st July the window when players can move between clubs in the same league?

If you notice, the players us, Man City, Man Utd and Leicester have signed are players not from other Premier League clubs. The one Liverpool have so far confirmed is from Chelsea which cannot become official until 1st July.

If we sign Keane and Sigurdsson, I guess these cannot be completed until after 1st July.

Martin Nicholls
91 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:44:02
Phil (#87) – Chico?
John Audsley
92 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:44:53
The man has signed!!

This is getting very exciting!!

Dan Davies
93 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:46:11
Welcome, Davy boy. Let's have some goals from midfield!
Mark Melton
94 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:46:23
Leicester fans seem to think they're signing Sigurdsson.
Phil Bellis
95 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:46:25
Spot on, Martin... Red faces in the Southern press THAT day... Harry could've run MI5.
Nigel Munford
96 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:50:14
There's a lot of euphoria on TW tonight.
Martin Nicholls
97 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:53:53
Rob (#90) – different countries have different windows for example Spain, Italy, Germany open on 1st July so business done with them isn't official until that date – a sort of pre-contract agreement if you like. Others, including us (and Netherlands) opened on 9th June but because most player contracts run to 30th June, players don't "officially" join their new clubs until 1st July.

I would assume (God forbid!) that if a player dropped down dead before 1st July that the contract would never come into effect and the player would be deemed never to have been transferred. That said, we've got Jordan and Davy so who cares!

John Smith
98 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:56:14
He'll be well thought of like Naismith, a hard working player that gets others involved but faster, more agile and even better finisher.
Dave Older
99 Posted 15/06/2017 at 22:56:46
Two signings in a week?!?!?! I can't take much more of this positive transfer activity, I can tell you.

It's only June??!!! We never do business in June Ronald what is up with you man!!??!

Or is it August 31st? It must be.....the twitches are coming back and I need to get back on those tablets I was prescribed after that whooping Liverpool gave us earlier this season. Somebody wake me up, I am dreaming right?????!!!! COYB

James Marshall
100 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:01:27
We just signed the captain of Ajax, who led them to 2nd in the league, and they were only pipped at the post for the title, and the Europa League Final...

Say what you like about the Dutch league, but the guy is a big player, and a leader. Proper Dutch pros don't fuck about. Like Dutch managers.

Rob Halligan
101 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:05:47
That's the way I look at it as well, Martin. Anyway, WTF. 2 great signings, and anyone think Klaassen will be made captain for next season?
Drew O'Neall
102 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:10:56
Erik, Marc, Mike,

Klaassen is Frank Lampard.

Intelligent, right place right time, not spectacularly fast or skilful, keeps it ticking without too many touches.

James Marshall
103 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:12:09
Watching the ever reliable YooTube videos of him, he reminds me a bit of young Frank Lampard.

Good passer, head up, touch of pace (not blinding), good touch, positional sense, arriving in the box, full of energy, decent finisher, all the things our midfield is crying out for – our midfield is looking packed with quality for next year.

Eddie Dunn
104 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:14:08
What is going on? Players in! It's June for God's sake!
Brian Wilkinson
105 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:14:12
Keep this up with more signings and I may need a new pair of underpants and a pacemaker.
James Marshall
106 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:15:58
M'Baye Niang looks a handful – touch of the Paul Pogba's about him.

Again, my reliable source is YouTube.

Ian Ainslie
107 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:16:45
Rob (#101),

Yes, definitely our captain in future – no question.

Gerry Quinn
108 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:17:35
Has anyone confirmed that this is like a new signing along with another player who will be like a new signing too?
Tom Bowers
109 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:18:16
Koeman is the new boss and has had one season to assess what he has and now is getting ''his'' team together.

I do believe Rom and Ross will go, along with several others who may find the competition for places too hot for them. It's essential Rom is replaced soon and I am sure Koeman has a player in mind who can do a similar job, if not better.

Kevin Jones
110 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:20:33
"Permission to shout 'Hurrah', Sir, in a very load voice."
Kevin Jones
111 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:22:39
That should be 'loud' voice – not 'load'... spoilt it now. It wasn't that funny anyway and I went and messed it up. Permission to sulk for hours, Sir.
Drew O'Neall
112 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:25:37
Permission denied.
Brian Furey
113 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:27:23
Great news today and it shows we mean business. The AC Milan fans have been giving out loads about Niang but maybe he'd be okay as our No 2 or 3 striker if not too expensive.

I wonder what Barkley is thinking now? I'd like him to stay and fight for his place as well as Deulofeu but I doubt he will.

Dolberg next?

Peter Gorman
114 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:28:28
Klaassen should be ace – we need more winners on the team.

Niang looks awful. AC Milan fans prefer Deulofeu – says it all.

James Marshall
115 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:28:32
Great minds think alike, Drew – Klaassen is definitely Frank Lampard.
Kieran Kinsella
116 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:34:43
It makes all the difference having new guys in preseason versus joining September 1.
Brent Stephens
117 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:36:09
Nigel (#58) – I'm a very patient man, and very happy tonight. Good to see the business getting done despite all the predictions to the opposite.
Charlie Lloyd
118 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:36:53
Who remembers (would rather forget) that pre-season time of the Martinez reign when in came Robles, Kone and Alcaraz within days. Well, this is more like it.

Pickford, who we flew out to do the medical with, then looks like followed closely by Klaassen. Not much messing about either.

Looks like a positive start.

Jay Griffiths
119 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:36:55
Not a yellow tie in sight.

The red shites will be holding crisis meetings in work tomorrow. Jesus wept, no second thoughts about season ticket renewal since... Shit! When was the last time I didn't feel rubber-dicked after the money left my bank? 😨

We're like Pacman in the transfer market.

Ian Ainslie
120 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:38:25
I read ToffeeWeb at least a dozen times every day, and have done for over ten years, but never post. Two posts in 15 minutes – what's going on???

As someone said earlier there's a lot of euphoria on TW tonight!!

Kieran Kinsella
121 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:40:50
Decent centre-half, two attackers and we should be good. Yeah, there are other areas to improve but it's tough to settle more than 5 or 6 starters at once.
Mike Gaynes
122 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:43:10
POW!

Who is this team we're cheering?

Can't be our Everton.

Charlie Lloyd
123 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:44:42
Just been on the OS and there he is decked out in his Sportpesa top doing an interview.

Didn't think it was fully completed. Think we have done well keeping this under the radar. News outlets knew we had big interest but not even Sky had really cottoned on that he was in the building.

The right way to conduct business. Quality.

Iain Thomson
124 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:53:48
Great signing, doesn't twat about just does simple things and has habit for arriving in the box at the right time... seems like a leader in how he plays.
Jay Wood
125 Posted 15/06/2017 at 23:55:21
Again, very well played Everton.

I like the profile of players we are recruiting. Talented, right age, not yet peaked, leadership qualities and some nark about them.

Don't just look at clips of Pickford's saves, also note how pumped he is when he does make a good save. See how he shouts and screams at senior players in front of him, telling them what he wants them to do.

Klaassen is a similar pedigree. He will not only give us the greater 'productivity' that Koeman is looking for (and heaven knows we need more goals from midfield), he is also a nark. You don't get named as captain of Ajax at 22 (and chosen by fellow pros as the league's Player of the Year) unless you are a genuine leader.

The Niang link concerns me, all the more so when considering he was loaned to Watford by the club that borrowed Deulofeu from us. But then, he fits a 'type' Koeman is possibly looking for. He is certainly more Bolasie than Deulofeu. That is, possibly offering more stamina and physical presence than the more technically gifted but mercurial Deulofeu.

I'm guessing we'll see more recruits with this kind of profile: large physical specimens, high octane stamina and energy, speedy to the point of direct, as Koeman aims for quicker transition and counter-attacking throughout the team.

Let's not forget, it was Koeman who signed Fraser Foster for Southampton from Celtic, so he knew the player very well. And yet, he has gone with Pickford. With his Dutch and Ajax connections, he will also know Klaassen well.

I rather think today has put to bed any hysteria about Everton's tardiness in this transfer window, or the lingering doubts about the sincerity of Moshiri to invest in the squad, don't you?

Steve Ferns
126 Posted 15/06/2017 at 00:07:49
Surely this is the best pre-transfer window we've ever had!

Actual transfer window opens on 1st July. All that means is we can register the player as ours. In signing them, we have the players' previous clubs' permission to do so.

Hope that clears that up.

Dan Parker
127 Posted 16/06/2017 at 00:18:59
Fuckin' get in la! P P P P Pick Up a Pickford and a Klaassen, crowd surfing in the Mosh pit!
Jamie Sweet
128 Posted 16/06/2017 at 00:39:54
24-year-old Dutch international and Captain of Ajax. A goal every 3 games for club and country.

This would appear to be a top quality signing.

I'm quite liking this.

Geoff Lambert
129 Posted 16/06/2017 at 00:42:26
And more to come in the next couple of days.
David Booth
130 Posted 16/06/2017 at 00:51:26
Strange that we sold Gibson and appear to be getting rid of Cleverley. Keeping hold of both of them would have given us what worryingly appears to be Koeman's utopia – a team composed almost entirely of midfield players: with Pickford in goal, Lukaku up top, and Barry, Besic, Gibson, Cleverley, Gana, Schneiderlin, Davies, Klaassen and Barkley in between?
Paul Hughes
131 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:06:18
What's going on? Everton are the main headline on Sky Sports News!

It's the end of the world as we know it. And I feel fine.


Steven Jones
132 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:07:20
Klaassen is a ranger, at pace, he has exceptional vision and relaxed view of what is around him – clear crisp passing

He has a great first touch and moves fast, moving at pace, which Ron loves on the transition or counter. He sees every option and plays the ball early with instinct.

He is like Klaassen – not anyone else.

We have got a fast-paced breaker and maker of chance for others. All the adjectives need to be positive as he is a winner! Ross can drop back and let him go!

<
Daniel Lim
133 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:18:42
He said Koeman and him talked a few weeks ago. Are we in danger of being accused of tapping up? Subsequently penalised?
Peter Gorman
134 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:40:29
Not if Ajax knew about it and sanctioned it, Daniel.
Anto Byrne
135 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:43:59
Barkley would be mad to leave simply because he won't be the centre of attention and he can play a more supporting role. Is he a £40mil player?
Phil Jeffries
136 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:52:55
I'm really happy with Klaassen and Pickford. I'm especially happy with Klaassen as we have signed a player who knows where the goal is and brings leadership qualities too.

With Liverpool and Spurs linked previously, let's hope they are kicking themselves when he gets going in a blue shirt. COYB!

Paul Dewhurst
137 Posted 16/06/2017 at 01:57:16
Possibly the most positive thread I've ever read on TW! Keep the signings coming!!!
Kieran Kinsella
138 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:05:04
David Booth

Bit of a silly post. He's said he's going to sell Barkley. Barry is being phased out. Little to suggest he's a huge Besic fan. I imagine he's looking at maybe a diamond type of midfield with Schneiderlin deeper, then Klaseen, Davies and maybe Gana in some sort of arrangement. A striker up top an AN Other who could be a striker with wing backs or a winger with Davies shifting to the right.

Don Alexander
139 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:06:55
This lad has well cut the mustard in Holland and for Holland but, as I'm sure he himself appreciates, can he cut it in the Premier League? If he can, lucky us.

Unfortunately the all too disappointing experience of our Premier League history on new signings, and way before that in truth, concerns me. None of the teams above us seem to have been linked with him. Why?

That said, I'll welcome him if he consistently gives only what I've already seen of his all. If he improves, I might even buy him a schooner!

Welcome to you, Davy.

Kristian Boyce
140 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:08:35
I reckon there were a few frantic phone calls today between Barkley and his agent after seeing Sky Sports today.
Kieran Kinsella
141 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:08:42
It is a bit of a change. In the past we'd bring in four signings and it would be Jeffers on loan, McFadden, Martyn and Kilbane for a net spend of about £5 million. Now it's Bolasie, Schneiderlin, Pickford and Klaassen for £100 million.
James Flynn
142 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:10:44
Jay (#125) – "I rather think today has put to bed any hysteria about Everton's tardiness in this transfer window, or the lingering doubts about the sincerity of Moshiri to invest in the squad, don't you?"

I do, to your question.

I'll add, we're seeing the first window where the club has a structure in place regarding player scouting/recruitment. Looking pretty good so far.

David Barks
143 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:17:17
Let's not get carried away. I'm very pleased and I think we all should be pleased with these two signings. But let's not have this "put to bed" any doubts. We've signed a very promising young keeper, Sunderland's best player, and the Ajax captain.

But, we're still looking at a scenario where Lukaku is going to be sold and most likely so is Barkley. When Lukaku goes that leaves us without a single striker at the club. And if Barkley goes then we have flipped him for Klaassen.

So I'm very pleased with the activity this week, but let's not get ahead of ourselves and take our eyes off the ball, so to speak. We still need to add quite a bit to this squad and need those additions to be top quality.

So I don't think it puts anything to bed, but it's a very promising start to this summer. But we need a hell of a lot more. I sincerely hope those additions continue to come in.

Soren Moyer
144 Posted 16/06/2017 at 02:32:47
Now let's loan them both out. Hehe!
Gordon Crawford
145 Posted 16/06/2017 at 03:02:38
Great news. Now to get Sigurdsson before Leicester.
Andrew Presly
146 Posted 16/06/2017 at 03:07:49
Anything other than keeping Lukaku one more year, taking the 25-ish goals as well as all his crap, then selling post World Cup for circa 㿷m as he only has 1 year left is small time and would be typical Everton.

Today has been fun. Years of penury and hopefully the accompanying sob stories are over. The fans need to get with it too. These players should compliment what we have already, not represent replacements for outgoing talents.

David Barks
147 Posted 16/06/2017 at 03:11:20
Andrew,

Totally agree. I'd add to that, adding a player like Sandro in addition to keeping Lukaku. That would signal some real intent.

David Ellis
148 Posted 16/06/2017 at 03:50:14
A good bit of momentum early in summer – should help waverers like Sandro to join the party. Forget Lukaku though... he's mentally moved on... time to let him go.

I hope Barkley stays but, if he doesn't, I feel comfortable that he will be replaced. The fact is we are certainly at the right level for Barkley's talent (unlike Rooney in 2005). So no reason for him to leave unless he doesn't fancy the manager or the competition for his place.

I can't see Barkley getting much game time at Spurs or any of other big 7 (Other than us or perhaps Liverpool but I can't seem him moving there, full stop.)

Ronnie Pearce
149 Posted 16/06/2017 at 03:51:45
We will only keep Lukaku for next season if there is no buyer. I wouldn't like to speculate on his feelings and subsequent form if he has to stay at Everton next season.

Good as his goal scoring record is, Lukaku needs to go so that Koeman can set up the team for life without him.

I would hope that any other incoming players will reflect that Koeman has an alternative plan to relying on Lukaku for goals. Hopefully Klaassen is the first part of that plan.

Jay Wood
150 Posted 16/06/2017 at 04:18:48
David @ 143 and 147:

I don't know if you have been one of them, but quite clearly and quite hysterically and stridently, there has been a good number of posts bleating about the tardiness of Everton's transfer business in this barely opened transfer window.

This is probably due (justifiably in some way) to the model we have long been accustomed to: namely, selling before buying, waiting to the 11th hour on the final day of the transfer window to get in some loan deals.

In every transfer window since he gained his majority shareholding at Everton, there have been lingering doubts about the sincerity of Moshiri and his willingness to spend big on player recruitment. I number myself among those who wanted to see hard proof that he could and would.

Today's two incoming deals and the prices paid, the rapidity of closing the deals, reassures this poster at least that things (finally) are different.

Now if they prove to be the only arrivals of note, then the doubts and questions return. As I've already said previously, we will only truly be in a position to assess the summer dealings when the window closes in a couple of months.

Like yourself – and again, I have made this very comment on TW today – I would prefer incoming players not as replacements for two of our best players, Lukaku and Barkley, but rather as enhancements and reinforcements with both players remaining.

To try and downplay the significance of today as you do is old-school thinking. Who knows? The quality of these signings, the price paid and the earliness of the dealings may have the following consequences:

● It makes both Lukaku and Barkley sit up and think: "hang on! Everton is being serious! Something is happening here that may be worth sticking around for and being a part of."

● It flags up to other players the club has targeted the same thing – that Everton is a club on the up and well worth considering as an option.

Quite clearly, Kenwright is not the sole hand on the tiller in our transfer dealings. We are not employing his 'gentlemen's club' negotiating style over a glass of brandy before a burning log fire.

In the last 48 hours Walsh has been seen in Italy pursuing any number of targets; the club sent a representative to Poland to complete a medical and the signing of Pickford; Klaassen was transported to Finch Farm and the deal closed.

That is slick, quick and very, very professional. There is a team behind our recruitment drive. Not a single individual at the centre of every deal.

Relish it! Enjoy it!

Kristian Boyce
151 Posted 16/06/2017 at 04:26:18
James (#142), it feels like we are finally being run as a business, not Bill's trainset.

After I saw the video of the 'delegation' heading to their meeting in Milan, I was imagining if this happened a few years back. Could you see Moyes, Bill and Bobby Elstone strolling up to the San Siro and being taken seriously?

Times are changing at the club and Bill's role is dwindling. I was half-expecting to see a gushing Bill plastered all over the media exalting the new signings and owning the most expensive British goalkeeper. The speed of all these deals going through seems that there has been a lack of involvement by the 'best salesman' Everton has.

Albert Perkins
152 Posted 16/06/2017 at 05:06:40
He puts players through on goal. He scores goals because he gets into the box. He is a better header than anyone we have now.

Now we need someone who can cross the ball. Oh, and a striker. Ramos?

Philip Jeffries
153 Posted 16/06/2017 at 05:10:48
Don (#139),

Klaassen has been linked to Liverpool and Spurs over the last 2 years. Apparently Liverpool tried to sign him 12 months ago but he stayed with Ajax. This year, he had offers from Germany and Italy, but we nipped in to get him. Great bit of business IMO.

David Barks
154 Posted 16/06/2017 at 05:19:27
Why not have a go at Sergio Aguero? I'm dead serious.

Pep made it known that Jesus was going to be his man and the only reason Aguero got back in the side last season was a broken bone for Jesus.

Make a serious offer and see what happens.

Tony Cheek
155 Posted 16/06/2017 at 05:32:48
Great, just give me players that won't tremble at the sight of an RS shirt, that will do me!
Jay Harris
156 Posted 16/06/2017 at 05:39:02
Thats a great shout, David. I advocated tongue-in-cheek a few months ago when Aguero was dropped that we should make a cheeky bid for him.

But, based on the money we are now seen to be spending and with Koeman's pulling power, you never know; however, with Bill still around, we might end up with Bony instead of Aguero.

Chris Gould
157 Posted 16/06/2017 at 06:32:51
David and Jay,

I'm all for a bit of positivity but there's no way Aguero would come to us. Every Champions League club in Europe would take him. We're not at that level – yet.

I'm not sure we need our very own Galactico. Aguero wouldn't come to us with fire in his belly. We'd be a step down in his mind, and besides, no way would we pay his sort of wages.

We're targetting young hungry players with plenty to prove. I think that's the right way forward.

Ian Hollingworth
158 Posted 16/06/2017 at 06:46:55
What great news!

Exactly what we need, better quality players who will go straight into the first eleven.

Keep up the ambition, Everton.

Another striker or two and a centre-back please.
COYB

Ian Hollingworth
159 Posted 16/06/2017 at 06:49:04
Let's hope this activity has turned Bullshit Billy into Backseat Billy.
Peter Warren
160 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:04:44
Agree on Aguero and money talks.
John Wells
161 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:37:33
It's June 2017, I'm 43 and have been supporting Everton since I was 7 or 8. We have just made two good signings in the month of June and it looks like more to come. Am I fucking awake or floating around some happy universe!!

It's unreal the difference in this club!! Big 4 – get the fuck out of the way!

Nev Renshaw
162 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:38:38
When it comes to securing players' signatures at Everton, I hate that term 'All but done'. History has taught us to expect disappointment at the last hurdle. So fingers crossed it all goes smoothly this time. COYB.
Mike Gaynes
163 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:50:33
Pass on Aguero. Even if we could interest him (which I strongly doubt because we're not in the Champions League), he'd be a highly-paid mercenary who'd be looking for an exit to a more glamorous club the minute he got to Finch Farm. He likes the bright lights and we cannot (yet) offer that spotlight.
Jamie Morgan
164 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:52:18
Went to bed smiling seeing the Klaassen deal completed! But I am fucking fuming to find I've woken up and we haven't signed anyone else overnight!

Where is Keane, Sigurdsson or Sandro? Same old dithering Everton!! Oh and where's the Arteta money?

[Does sarcasm carry through okay on here?]

Philip Jeffries
165 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:55:53
On a side note, it's hilarious to see kopite heads falling off over the early transfer activity. Most are quite envious of the Klaassen signing after they were linked 12 months ago but he elected to stay in Holland.

I'm already in a good mood, but when you realise Liverpool fans are kicking off... cherry on the top!

Rob Birks
166 Posted 16/06/2017 at 07:57:35
It's all a bit surreal so far. The window isn't even open and we've spent 㿣 million already!

Ahhh, we Evertonians are a suspicious and questioning bunch though. And why not? We have been fed on a staple diet of lies, false promises and "nearly signed him" for decades.

So forgive me for gushing about the spending until the season starts and it's not another false dawn. By that I mean we don't just spend the Lukaku money.

We deserve a bit of good news. So, I would like Lukaku's fee plus Moshiri's war-chest to be wisely spent this window.

Dermot Byrne
167 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:11:55
When does the transfer window open? It maybe obvious but why do some clubs get into trouble and others not outside window?
James Doran
168 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:13:56
We still need a new left back. Chilwell, Robertson, Cresswell or Shaw would do.
Andrew Clare
169 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:18:10
Great to sign two really good young players. Hopefully we are building a team that will play as a unit rather than relying on one player to provide all of the goals – a young fast side.

Is the Sandro deal in limbo because of the Costa situation at Chelsea? We still require at least four other first team players.

Very exciting times for us Evertonians.

Mike Gaynes
170 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:19:51
Rob (#166), the window actually opened several days ago.

James (#168), can't you just enjoy the moment and savour what we've done so far? Plus we have much, much higher priorities than a deputy left back.

Liam Reilly
171 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:24:08
I'd imagine having Koeman at the helm is helping with these signings. He clearly has a plan and an image of his team for this season.

Personally, I think we've got two gems in these two players. With a few more acquisitions, it's going to be a very interesting season.

Peter Gorman
172 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:35:59
Pffft, Callum Connolly can fill in at left back when the time comes.

Klaassen appears to be a great character too, notable that he seems to celebrate every goal and assist with his team and I doubt he was made such a young captain for nothing. I would love some of his drive to rub off on the others.

Makes the rumours of Niang all the more weird, he is completely the wrong sort. But the signs are obviously pointing towards a policy of recruiting young players hungry for success, which is exactly as it should be.

Anton Walsh
173 Posted 16/06/2017 at 08:58:21
I preferred a shaved head or a full head. This guy looks too much like a 1970s throwback. But the lack of a 3 grand sleeve makes up for that.
Sam Hoare
174 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:07:39
I don't think Aguero is leaving Man City and, even if he did, then I don't believe we'd be in his top 10 desired ports of call.

Pickford and Klaassen point to a team full of young talent who have already proven themselves capable to some degree but still have plenty of ambition and fire in their belly. That's the way forward.

Dermot O'Brien
175 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:11:28
Jamie (#164) – Haha, yeah it has got to that stage where we expect something new every day, I was disappointed Everton are not in the BBC gossip column. We're never happy.

One thing that is significant here is that we are signing players and spending big before we sell. We are not selling to buy, or buying to sell.

Andrew Ellams
176 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:17:57
I think James has a point re the left back. We are desperately short in that department considering the number of games that Baines might be asked to play this season. The lad Robertson at Hull would be my first choice. Sealing Martina from Southampton on a one-year deal at right back wouldn't hurt either.
Brian Harrison
177 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:18:26
Koeman and Walsh are doing the right thing in buying players early and before we offload players. I think we will buy squad players and first team players, so not every signing is destined as first choice.

We will definitely need two strikers with Lukaku, Barkley and Kone going, plus they will probably look to sell Niasse. Also at least one centre-back is needed and a left back to challenge Leighton.

Geoff Williams
178 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:24:09
Two new centre-backs is a must. Williams is awful and Jagielka is past his best. Two or possibly three quality strikers needed too especially if Lukaku is on his way.
Dave Abrahams
179 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:28:21
I'm as happy as most on here with these two quick signings, keep them coming.
Ernie Baywood
180 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:31:17
Dermot (#175)... just the gossip common? Last few times I've gone to the Beeb we've been the headline!

Long may it continue. Have we ever gone this hard so early in the window?

Phil Sammon
181 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:41:21
I've never seen this lad play so I can't pass judgement.

However, it does seem we are absolutely loaded in centre midfield...yet still missing a playmaker. From what I've read about Klaassen, he's a bit of a Lampard type. Good type of player to have... but very hard to fit into a team. A bit like Cahill in his last season actually, if they're not scoring goals then can go missing.

A left winger, a striker, two centre backs... all bigger priorities for me.

Jamie Morgan
182 Posted 16/06/2017 at 09:48:52
Next year we'll need the left back. I think we have more pressing positions to fill first. Two centre backs. Keane and Smalling perhaps for a combined 㿑mil?

Sigurdsson to sort the last piece of the midfield.

Oh and the fact we have no strikers. (Apart from Niasse!)

Tony Dove
183 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:00:19
We are spending the Lukaku money in anticipation of his sale so there is absolutely no chance of him staying even if he wanted to.
John Graham
184 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:09:05
I don't think Klaassen is here just because he is a good player. Looks to me like Koeman is building up a team full of captains who will have voices on the pitch to rally the team.

With Williams, Coleman, Klaassen, Pickford (not a shy boy) and a few others, we should have plenty of battle in the team too.

Erik Dols
185 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:29:06
Interesting article in Dutch press (in Dutch, and login required, Link) about what Klaassen should add to Everton. A statistical analysis mainly. It argues that Everton doesn't leak too much goals, but scores too little in comparison to the clubs above. Buying goals is a must and Klaassen scores a lot for a midfield player. Even more, he scores about three times as often as Barkley, but needs less shots to do so. Of course the question is if this has to do with the Dutch League or if Klaassen is genuinely better at this aspect than Ross is.

It also states Barkley loses the ball too often (18.5 times every 90 minutes on average, only 5.1 recoveries) and therefore is banned to the right side. Klaassen loses the ball less (12.1 times) and is a slightly better ball winner (5.7 times). So Klaassen gets more goals while losing the ball less. The article goes on that Everton's midfield has enough defensive guile with Gueye, Barry and Schneiderlin but lacks in creating goal scoring chances. Klaassen not only adds this directly by scoring himself, he is ranked second on accurate through balls in the last three seasons in the Dutch league (Hakim Ziyech being number one).

It also mentions Klaassens ability to play several tactics and praises his footballing intelligence, especially mentioning that Klaassen can read a game and fire the team on when needed. He sees when the team needs to put the pressure on the opponent and actively pulls the rest of the team with him in doing so. They mention that this might be very welcome in away games against lesser opponents, where Everton lost a lot of points last season.

Of course, the big unknown is the question whether Klaassen can do this in the Premier League as well. Only time will tell if he is more like Depay/Janssen or like Eriksen/Wijnaldum.

Joe Edwards
186 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:45:23
With Klaassen in and Sigurdsson on his way, Gana and Tom is our Midfield and don't forget Bolasie on his way back, the future does look exceedingly bleak for Barkley who is in total limbo now, his agent has put all his eggs in the "move away" basket and it looks as if the eggs have all fallen out and broken.

If we can get Niang and Sandro in as strikers then I am a happy fan. We needed to move quickly away from Lukaku and his inflated ego, and from Ross with his inconsistency – and it looks like that's exactly what we are doing.

Koeman looks as if he has put his size 9 up the arse of the board (or Moshiri has sacked Bumbling Blue Bill from any transfer dealings). Either way, I am extremely happy with the way the squad is shaping and moving away from the nightmare that was Bobby Brown Shoes.

Iakovos Iasonidis
187 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:49:13
Our away shirt will be black:

http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/817786/Everton-transfer-news-Jordan-Pickford-Davy-Klaassen-unveil-shirt-sportgalleries

Alan Bodell
188 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:50:03
I'm starting to enjoy this summer, I still believe Mo Besic will be a big player – unlike some of my mates who have doubted him.

Tom Davies in there too with Schneiderlin, looking good.

Tony Hill
190 Posted 16/06/2017 at 10:52:42
Alan, I agree with you about Besic if he can stay uninjured but we are very much in a minority among Blues, I think.
Rob Young
191 Posted 16/06/2017 at 11:00:02
I rate Besic very highly as well, remember the absolute beast of a performance against Man City in the cup semi at Goodison.

If he stays fit I reckon he can be a huge player for us.

Andrew Ellams
192 Posted 16/06/2017 at 11:04:26
Alan and Tony, I think the issue most Blues have with Besic is his inability to stay fit, ditto McCarthy. If this really is the summer of the great rebuild, then maybe it's time to cut players like that free.
Brian Furey
193 Posted 16/06/2017 at 11:15:16
Interesting little list of Dutch footballer of the year and how many of them went on to play in England.

2007–08 John Heitinga (NED) Ajax
2008–09 Mounir El Hamdaoui (MAR) AZ
2009–10 Luis Suàrez (URU) Ajax
2010–11 Theo Janssen (NED) Twente
2011–12 Jan Vertonghen (BEL) Ajax
2012–13 Wilfried Bony (CIV) Vitesse
2013–14 Daley Blind (NED) Ajax
2014–15 Georginio Wijnaldum (NED) PSV
2015–16 Davy Klaassen (NED) Ajax

The one thing I was saying last season when we went for Schneiderlin was that whilst I thought he was a classy ball player, he probably won't score enough goals for us. We had Barry, Gueye, Schneiderlin, McCarthy and even Davis but none would score regular goals for us.

Klaassen scored 20 goals last year in league and Europa and 15 the year before. Niang, who is a striker and only 2 years younger, has only scored 29 goals in his 7 years in total.

I hope we don't get him.

Ciaran O'Brien
194 Posted 16/06/2017 at 11:46:27
At least we are starting to spend big before we sell. Klaassen could be a gem and will hopefully add goals from midfield because we have been lacking in that area since Cahill.

£25-30m is a bit steep for Pickford but if he is ours and England's number 1 for the next decade it will be money well invested plus young English players come at a premium.

Niang I don't know about; he has a poor record at Milan and wasn't any great shakes at Watford but Watford under Mazzarri were negative and horrible to watch – plus he is still only 22 and has a lot of pace so Koeman might get the best out of him.

Now we need to get Sandro over the line and then add a commanding centre-half or two, a new long term left back, a midfield playmaker and another striker. If Lukaku goes, a new star striker needs to come in.

Tony Abrahams
195 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:02:10
Jay Wood (#150), I loved both your last paragraph and then your last sentence!

If Liverpudlians are worried I love it but I've just read that it's the Arsenal fans who are fuming the most, with many of them worried that Usmanov is the man behind "The Toffees" now?

Different reports on Niang but it's a good feeling thinking that Everton are now being run correctly!

Michael Burke
196 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:05:42
Tony (#183), I'm glad we have the Everton accountant on TW to clear up the clubs expenditure. It is going to be wonderful to have players signed up, training together, bonding together for a FULL pre-season rather than 3 games in. We may even hit the ground running in August, we have a decent start to the campaign... oh wait.
Aidy Dews
197 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:11:37
For all those that aren't sure or don't know what type of player Klaassen is, he isn't a playmaker, he's not gonna sit in our midfield and pull all the string and create things in the final third.

He can be creative and will get his share of assists but he's a converted central midfielder after starting out as a No 10 but he finds space well, he's good on the ball but his best asset is his the timing of his runs into the box and his finishing. For a central midfielder, he's a very good finisher and he arrives in the box at the right times to get on the end of things and he will add a much needed goal threat to the team from an area where we lack goals.

Personally think this is a really good signing. It will take him time to get up to speed with the pace of our league but when he does he'll be great for us! We haven't had an attack minded midfielder that makes those runs into the box and gets goals like he does since Cahill!

And apparently this won't effect any moves for Sigurdsson either, so my guess is, if we get Sigurdsson, then Barkley is definitely a goner! But Sigurdsson I bet will be used in a front three from the left and in central midfield Schneiderlin will sit, Gueye or Davies will be box-to-box, put themselves about, and be a nuisance in there. Klaassen will be the attack-minded one of the 3 in there, as he was for Ajax over the past couple of seasons.

Andrew Wayne
198 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:14:44
It's all Klaassen's fault! Sorry getting some practice in early.

Joking aside, I told a red-nose mate of mine that Klaassen had signed and his response was "Klaassen? Davy Klaassen? Bloody hell!" Cue full bottom lip and dark mutterings about transfer dealings across the park – hard not to snigger.

Genuinely a great signing IMHO, as is Pickford. And to think I nearly didn't renew – like every year..

Mike Dixon
199 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:21:42
Am I only Blue who dreams of the following scenario?

Koeman's Office; Ron sits, tracksuited, leaning back. Lukaku sits opposite, fidgeting.

Ron: "Well, Rom, it's September the first, guess what?"
Rom: "What, Boss... tell me."
Ron: "No fucker thinks you are worth as much as you do."
Rom: "No-one, Boss?"
Ron: "No, not one single phone call from anyone wanting your services."
Rom: "Oh..."
Ron: "Yes. Get your fat arse out on that field and get your head down."

TBC (No doubt)

Andrew Ellams
200 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:27:18
The Spanish press are claiming that Barca are having a bit of a summer clearout with Christian Tello and Rafinha heading for the door. Worth a punt maybe?
Aidy Dews
201 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:29:03
And those worrying about Lukaku and Barkley going and we'll be left short etc, I don't think we will sell either until we've got our targets in and replacements!
Aidy Dews
202 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:30:13
Rafinha is mate, definitely! Quality player.
Andrew Ellams
203 Posted 16/06/2017 at 12:33:37
My thoughts exactly, Aidy. Could he be the Coutinho type player that we desperately need. Only 24 as well.
Ray Smith
204 Posted 16/06/2017 at 14:08:56
I think Ross has been badly advised by whomever.

Take Koeman on at your peril. He was given more than enough notice of the club's stance on the new reported 𧴜k a week.

Even if Sigurdsson doesn't come (and I sincerely hope he does), I can't see a future for Ross at Everton.

In short, he's been a bloody fool, and I can't see any team that finished above us last season taking him for 㿏m.

Where would he go? Chelsea, no. Liverpool no,. Man City don't think so. Spurs, not with Alli in the team, Arsenal possible!, Man Utd possible.

Silly boy, such a waste.

We will probably have to settle for somewhere in the 㿀m mark as a sweetener for a player/cash deal.

Tony Dove
206 Posted 16/06/2017 at 15:30:27
Michael@183, not sure whether you agree with my reading of the situation or not.

I just don't think we will spend much more than we get in. It's good to get players in early for once and hopefully the two new signings will justify their hefty price tags.

John Graham
207 Posted 16/06/2017 at 15:49:52
Are we all forgetting Lookman too? A young lad who has just shone at the U20 World Cup, who's developing fast and I am sure will play a big part in the first team next season.

I hope Dowell gets a few games too. Both players are capable of good passing football with a few goals in to boot.

Erik Dols
208 Posted 16/06/2017 at 15:58:38
Tony, your wording in this post is far more nuanced than the earlier post were you came over like there was no chance at all that we will spend more than we get in. Only the future will tell of course.

However, if we do sell Lukaku and Ross for a combined 𧴰 million, it will be hard to spend much more than that without getting ridiculous. It won't work to get in 10 players for 㿊 million each and I don't expect Everton to do so. Not because of some "Blue Bill – where is the Arteta money?" kind of conspiracy theory. Just because team management does not work like that.

I can see us fit in about five, may be six new players in and around the first team, but not more. And that means we will spend a maximum of around 𧵎 million. If (and that is an if) we sell Ross and Lukaku for big money, that automatically means we will not spend much more than we get in.

If that is what you mean, I actually agree with you.

James Hughes
209 Posted 16/06/2017 at 17:28:15
Mike, that is a very believable scenario.
Tim Greeley
210 Posted 16/06/2017 at 17:28:59
Davyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy, Davy Klaasen, Kind of the Wild Frontier!! (Insert some Merseyside reference that I would have no clue about for that last part). My first Everton song! Nice, thanks Davy.

Honestly, he reminds of Steven Naismith, but probably only because he looks a lot like him. A Dutch Nessi with skill, what's wrong with that!?

Ray Smith
211 Posted 16/06/2017 at 17:49:19
Mike (#199),

Good post

Are you the Mike Dixon that used to be a referee when you hung your boots up!!! If so, your reputation precedes you.

COYB

Jamie Crowley
212 Posted 17/06/2017 at 00:58:29
I'm seriously getting excited about the upcoming season. Young, hungry, with a few chiseled veterans around to help.

The gigantic white elephant in the room is Rom. In my opinion we will miss him dearly (clearly I think he's off...).

We need someone up top that can put the round spherical object in the back of the net.

Right now, I'm completely trusting Msgr Walsh and Co to find someone who will fit the bill in that regard.

Jamie Crowley
213 Posted 17/06/2017 at 01:02:31
Tim Greeley,

Americans are prohibited from penning songs and chants.

But I absolutely love the Davy Crocket theme!

Davy! Davy Klaassen! King of the wild frontier.

Give him a musket in the event of an abnormally physical contest too?

Anto Byrne
214 Posted 17/06/2017 at 14:16:34
Hopefully Koeman knows best. My reservations are the lack of pace but that never stopped Cahill or Naismith so maybe it's a good thing.

I'm hoping Barkley will stick around as he is undoubtedly a good player to have come off the bench and be part of the project. Is anyone going to pay the asking price?

Then we have Lookman, Kenny and Dowell; maybe one or two others will press for inclusion. Had Besic and McCarthy not been sicknotes, how much time would Davies had enjoyed?

Dave Abrahams
215 Posted 18/06/2017 at 09:16:52
Jamie Crowley (#213), this song is taken from the 1950s tribute song to Davie Hickson the Everton centre forward of the time which started with:

Born on a mountain top in Ellesmere Port, football was his favourite sport, Signed by Everton for a half a crown, Now he's playing for Huddersfield Town, Davie, Davie, Davie Hickson King of the forward line.

Kinsambwe Canan
217 Posted 18/06/2017 at 13:03:36
I personally like his leadership qualities on the pitch and the rest is just waiting to see how he fairs. We need a natural dribbler on the wings and I think if we get his teammate Amin Younes then that will be sorted because we will realise we don't have any.

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