Bernard officially joins Everton on a free transfer

Thursday, 9 August, 2018 231comments  |  Jump to most recent
Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Everton have made exciting Brazilian attacking midfielder Bernard their third major signing of the summer after he put pen to paper on a four-year contract today.

The 25-year-old flew into Manchester Airport yesterday afternoon to undergo a medical at Pall Mall Medical facility before moving on to Finch Farm to put the finishing touches on what is reported to be a six-figure-a-week contract with the Blues.

Following left-back Lucas Digne through the door, he joins compatriot Richarlison at Goodison Park after the latter's £40m move from Watford last month. He will wear the No.20 jersey that he has worn for Brazil in the past.

"I chose Everton because of all the things I had heard about Marco Silva and after speaking to him I was happy with what he said to me,” Bernard told evertontv.

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“The manager made me feel confident about playing here. He is a very good coach and he has achieved really good things at other clubs.

“Everton is a club with a great structure and a lot of tradition, historically the fourth most successful club in England. When I found out about this opportunity and what the manager wanted out of me I was happy.

“That is why I made my choice, because of the confidence both the manager and the Club showed in me.

“I did not need any convincing to come here. I believe I will be able to show my best as a player here."

The diminutive midfielder who hails from Belo Horizonte has had to work his way back to a level of critical acclaim after a fairly middling first season in the Ukrainian league and the taint of Brazil's humiliation at the hands of Germany at the World Cup four years ago.

Originally signed by Shakhtar from Atlético Mineiro for €25m as a replacement for Borussia Dortmund-bound Henrikh Mkhitaryan in 2013, Bernard only managed to chip in with a couple of goals and seven assists in his first season but he was, nevertheless, selected by Luiz Felipe Scolari for the 2014 World Cup.

He featured in two of the three group games as the host nation qualified, as expected, for the knockout phase before injury to Neymar handed him another chance to shine in that fateful semi-final. Brazil were thrashed 7-1 in front of their own fans and the watching world, with Bernard as culpable as any for a lacklustre display and he has not featured for his country since.

In the interim, despite the reduced competitiveness of the league in Ukraine, where war and bankruptcies have whittled the field down to just a dozen teams, and a change in manager two years ago that saw Paulo Fonseca replace the successful Mircea Lucescu, Bernard eventually found his feet again.

Under Fonseca's system, the inventive attacking midfielder flourished in a freer role behind the forwards and he was a vital member of the Donetsk team that made it out of the group stages last season and played some memorable matches against the likes of Manchester City against whom Bernard scored with a beautiful curling strike from the edge of the area.

With his contract winding down and an offer of new terms unable to tempt him into staying at Shakhtar, a number of top-tier European clubs were credited with serious interest in acquiring him on a free transfer this summer. Both Milan clubs, Napoli, Atletico Madrid, Tottenham and Chelsea were all said to have made contact but it was Everton who made their move to bring Bernard to the Premier League.

 

Reader Comments (231)

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Julian Wait
1 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:25:01
Brands & Silva et al seem to be delivering in terms of replacements / additions being upgrades to the squad, and not just more / younger bodies with the same capabilities.
Bill Griffiths
2 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:25:45
Hard to keep up with all the rumours now, let's just wait and see who's actually through the doors at 5pm tomorrow.
Do we have to sign Bernard by then or can it be later if he's on a Bosman?
Jamie Crowley
3 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:30:23
Bill -

Holy crap I didn't realize it closed at 5 pm BST!

We'd better get Bernard and Mina (or whatever CB we end up choosing) across the line quick! Thought it was a midnight deadline.

Hustle up Everton!

How great is it this guy is coming to us when he had interest all across Europe?! I'm very excited to see Bernard play.

Brent Stephens
4 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:36:05
Only 3 comments?! Not much interest in this guy!

Come on, get the deal done.

Derek Knox
5 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:36:56
Bill @2, unless the rules have changed, Bosman signings can be made any time as they are not contracted, to any other Club. I am hoping that is still the case, unless anyone knows better.
Dan Sanderson
6 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:38:36
Possibly the most upbeat ToffeeWeb headline of all time.
Jason Broome
7 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:40:30
I hope that the arrival of Bernard will help Lookman push on and develop. At 5'5 Bernard isn't the biggest but he is a power house of a player. Lookman will do well watching, learning and moulding himself into this type.

In less than 23 hours Zouma, Bernard and possibly two others... I'm excited for tomorrow.

Andy Meighan
8 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:44:30
It feels like this has taken forever. I'm still getting a nauseating feeling something will go wrong... Why am I so pessimistic?

Centre-backs urgently needed now. At least one and I'll view this as a good summer.

I remember this time last summer and the excitement of some. I never bought into it and I know hindsight is a wonderful thing but I just didn't get it.

This time, I've got a gut feeling things are about to change... Time is the key. One thing though; I'll bet we are good to watch.

Raymond Fox
9 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:44:46
Thats more like it, if he does indeed sign. We have needed a top midfielder for a few seasons now, Barkley was the hope not long ago but we all know how that ended.
Lets hope he is one of the missing links we need to get us among the elite.
Ray Said
10 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:49:47
Bill (2)
I think this is the position:
'Unattached players are free to join a new club outside the transfer window.

But Premier League clubs must name a 25-man squad at the end of every window.

That means that if a player signs, they will only be able to play in the Premier League if a club has not named a full squad or if they are under-21'.

Darren Murphy
11 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:51:29
Of course not Brent, because as per these losers can't sign anything, no sign of two centre backs yet bs bollocks about Bernard ffs.

We'll be in for a keeper next. Fucktard club.

Brian Porter
12 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:51:48
Why so long? Other clubs seem to get these kind of deals done and dusted in about 24 hours. We seem to have been at it for at least three days since it was announced, and God knows how long before that. He's a free agent so no other club involved. Everton can be so frustrating sometimes.
Mark Taylor
13 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:52:40
You'd have to say, there has been action this window, more than I thought there would be.

We have either moved or are desperately trying to move the dead wood we have; Williams, Rooney, Mirallas, Klaassen (shame about him) and maybe Bolasie. I didn't see Funes Mori as totally dead wood but he's gone too as has Robles. Shame we can't or don't want to move Schneiderlin but you can't have everything.

One word of caution about those who have arrived or are supposed to arrive. Last year there were plenty on here enthusing about our signings and not all that many naysayers. A year on, we lamented how we got ripped off for expensive signings on huge wages that we have taken big losses from.

If we are to believe those who claim Silva and Brands are wise men, this should not repeat, but a part of me thinks there is a matter of luck, at least to some extent, as to whether players do actually work out.

We could certainly do with some luck with this bunch given what happened last time. Let's hope Bernard is the new Silva, Richarlison the new Salah, Digne the new... well let's say the new Baines, that would suffice, and the rest who come in achieve a likewise level. Ok maybe we can afford one of them to fail...

Let's also hope that Silva can figure out a productive role for our most expensive signing from last year. At least it looks like these signings mean Siggi won't be marooned on the left wing.

John Wilson
14 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:54:52
First Talk Spite (Not Talk Sport, when it comes to Everton) say Bernard shouldn't go to Everton. Then other poisonous media outlets (the poison dwarfs) having a go at us for paying him over a 100k a week (or 6 mill.)

Lukaku when was was with us was apparently not good enough to be the best striker in the Premier League.

Hey ho, he leaves and the media darlings love him now.

It's like bitchy hour for Everton. If Everton do progress whose team will then face the poisonous chalice (some media outlets including Talk Spite)

Brent Stephens
15 Posted 08/08/2018 at 18:59:03
Darren #11 I'm sure you're right (?)
Bill Gienapp
16 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:00:58
The good thing about living on the West Coast here in the States is that I can just roll out of bed at 9:00 AM tomorrow and see where the dust settled on all our transfer activity.

Or... I'll wake up at 6:00 AM and just start frantically refreshing Twitter.

Graham Coldron
17 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:01:49
John, your comments about Talk Shite are spot on and makes you wonder why for some blizzare we are so apparently despised and treated with contempt.Radio 5 live is no better.
Rob Halligan
18 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:02:13
Don't like the sound of this. Reports in brandishing there will be a £40M release clause written into his contract. Don't know how much this is true, but if he has a good season with us and somebody offers the release clause amount, do we have to sell him?

Roberto Martinez reckoned that Everton were doing away with release clauses after Marouane Fellaini but Brazilian website Globo Esporte - via Sport Witness - claim Bernard is expected to sign a four-year deal with Everton, and will have a salary of €6m per year. The report adds that he will have a €45m release clause (around £40.53m)

John Otway
19 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:03:47
Darren Murphy #11. "Fucktard club". Shame on you. Mind the door on your way out of our club.
Rob Halligan
20 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:07:22
WTF .that first line should read "Reports in Brazil"
Tony Abrahams
21 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:09:39
He’s a free agent Rob, and it’s just the way the game has gone? If he wants to play for Silva now, then hopefully in twelve months time, he will want to play for Everton also!
Nitesh Kanchan
22 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:13:10
Reports coming in Mina headed to Everton. Andre Gomes might be on his way too.
Duncan McDine
23 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:16:13
I prefer these kind of deals that go largely unnoticed... I might be wrong, but it feels like they hit the ground running more often than the big money signings. I’m looking forward to seeing this guy in action
Jason Broome
24 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:17:12
Lets hope he does well, becomes a fan favourite, falls in love with all things Everton (easily done) and stays regardless of the clause.

I'm more concerned with keeping Brands. Bloody hell is he finding diamonds!

Stewart Lowe
25 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:17:53
Bernard is like having a Willian or David Silva, he is that good. Last year I made the mistake like the rest of us of hoping. I felt so sure that Sandro would be outstanding for Everton, as he came from the Barcelona academy, and they don't take any rubbish, but it never worked out.

Yet again, with Bernard, I'm getting drawn in as I think he will be amazing for us. Unlike Sandro, he isn't potential, he is the real deal right now. Everton have been crying out for a technically gifted midfielder for many years that can unlock defences and turn on the ball between the lines, and so I cant describe how exciting this is.

Two weeks ago I was looking at the Liverpool shite and how they have 7 attacking players that they can move around the front 6, and at least two of them each game will score, as they rotate very well. I then looked at our front 6 and it really depressed me. Now I see our front 6 as Richarlison, Tosun, Lookman, Walcott, Sigurdsson and Bernard, which shows me that we are starting to look a far more potent side.

If these are the type of players we can expect to come to Everton, I cant wait to see what the squad looks like this time next year after two more transfer windows :)

Lastly, it dawned on me today that we actually need 3 centre backs and not 2. With Funes Mori and Williams already out the door, we still have Jagielka at 36, who just doesn't have that turn of pace anymore, so will get caught out again and again this season, but will be ok as a bench player. Keane, despite his youth, is also not a centre back that can play in this system, as you have to be a certain kind of defender that is crying out to take the ball, but he isn't and probably never will be. So that just leaves Holgate, who is injured, but he may also not be good enough to play as a 3rd centre back who is confident at bringing the ball out from the back, the jury is out at this level. So I say minimum of two centre backs by tomorrow, or we will struggle immensely at the back.

John G Davies
26 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:18:18
If he doesn't, we are £40 mil up.
Chris Gould
27 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:18:31
Rob, if there is a release clause, and a club triggered it, then they would immediately be allowed to talk to Bernard. However, he would have to agree to the move. If he wants to stay then the release clause means nothing. I personally reckon it's nonsense. He hasn't even signed yet. Where would the Brazilian site get that info from? Possibly the agent, but it would be a bit odd for him to release that info before the contract had been signed.
Brands is no fool. Maybe he has a release clause that kicks in after 3 years? It's very unlikely that another club will be able to pinch him in just 12 months time.

Bill #16,

For me it's: News now, Toffeeweb, Echo, SSN, wait 10 minutes then repeat.

Max Murphy
28 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:18:51
Well, that should do the trick. Look out, Man City!
Rick Pattinson
29 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:19:13
What a player this guy is. Cracking deal when it's finally done. Now get Lascelles a striker and we're pretty much done.
Albert Perkins
30 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:19:29
Darren #11, sorry you are having a rough time, but thanks for sharing.
Jim Bennings
31 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:20:16
At the very least by tomorrow we need to be seeing Bernard and Zouma (loan most likely) being paraded in Everton shirts.

The ultra ambitious in me would love to see Bernard, Zouma and one from Mina, Smalling or Rojo signed but I can’t see that now, think the Mina deal is dead.

I’d be pleasantly pleased with Bernard, Zouma and Andre Gomes but still a tad concerned about the striking issues especially if Tosun were to fall prey of unfortunate injury.

Geoff Risebrow
32 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:24:37
Very excited about this signing. I hope he is a player in the ilk of Juninho! I wouldn't take report's from Brazil as gospel. Every other source I have seen has said it is a five year deal. A release clause would be hugely disappointing unless it was £200m!
Colin Glassar
33 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:27:26
Rob, only if the player wants to leave. The club (Everton in this case) will just have to smile and swallow.
Brent Stephens
34 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:27:54
I don't think Darren #11 was being serious (were you?!). Anyway, you make me laugh.
Dermot Byrne
35 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:29:40
Shit man...may start happily clapping!
Darren Murphy
36 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:39:15
Albert i'm having a whale of a time sonny.

@ Brent, yeah getting a bit frustrated bro, want our business done by 5p.m lad.

Darren Hind
37 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:39:26
Welcome Bernard.

It's been a long time since I troubled the edge of my seat. Bring the devil and your dancing shoes

Darren Murphy
38 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:41:41
Shit in yer hand then clap DB...more effective than our realistic signings ;)
Nitesh Kanchan
39 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:42:43
So far... 5 players linked. Mina is on his way with Barcelona having excess non-EU players;Zouma looks certainty on loan with Chelsea stacked up on centre-backs; Drinkwater possible as well if Besic moves to Boro; Andre Gomes also linked with Barcelona trying to offload him; and Lascelles is off.
Bill Gienapp
40 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:42:49
Good news everyone! (Professor Farnsworth voice from Futurama).

A fresh round of tweets on Twitter claiming the Mina deal is 100% done. They REALLY, REALLY mean it this time!

Brent Stephens
41 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:44:18
Know how you feel, Darren M!
Drew O'Neall
42 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:46:31
No big deal on the release clause if that’s what we had to do to get the upper hand on the competition for his signature.

If someone triggers the release clause then they’ll have to pay him more than we are and we get £40m for not doing much.

If he’s putting himself in the shop window then fair enough, he’ll be well motivated to play his ass off.

Karl Meighan
43 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:47:18
Quite right Mark@13 last season I couldn't fault the people in charge of purse strings they went out and spent on players which is what fans want. Most of the signings most of us were happy with, Keane was coming off the back of a fine season and looked to be establishing himself in the England team, Klassen from Ajax and eh they only produce talented footballers with great technique, Siggurdsen a goalscoring 10 who was bought for big money and Rooney someone who had unfinished business, football aint played on paper and lets hope the redshite suffer the way we had to, of course they wont lucky as they are. Although I'm happier and optimistic with players arriving lets hope this window is different and the new players get us somewhere close to were we belong.COYB.
Chris Gould
44 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:47:34
Never doubted it, Bill.
Derek Knox
45 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:47:35
Darren @38, would that be the same as the shit hitting the (Everton) fan?
Darren Murphy
46 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:50:38
John Otway , try find sarcasm on your way out lol.

Bit of banter whilst we await who comes in eh lads n lasses.

Some of us are bored shitless of hearing about Sheedy, Stevens, Dixie etc, the past is done with, it's 2018, only the redshite bang on about their past. I'm not interested, I know our past...we were excellent we fucking are far from it currently now unfortunately. Move on

Hugh Jenkins
47 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:53:13
A single unexpected capture, like Bernard, can make the world of difference to the perception in which EFC is held by the public at large and by other players.

This one signing, could be enough to convince others (e.g.Gomez / Mina) that this is an ambitious club and is the right place to ply their trade.

This one signing could, possibly, be the start of the road back to where this club truly belongs.

Ed Prytherch
48 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:53:16
I'm not ready to write Jags off yet. He went through a bad patch with Koeman, was benched and came back and played well. He used to be praised for his speed. We all slow down as we age but pace does not disappear overnight. Unless of course he is on the rhino diet.
Dermot Byrne
49 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:54:21
Darren #38: lol. How did you know that is what I do!

Some harsh truth in #46

Darren Murphy
50 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:57:34
We will see Brent...fucking love this club so hopefully we get a few gems...bit late that's irking me lad. 12 hour flight didn't help.

Might be DK, I hope we pull a few blinders out of the fan to be fair. But you're correct man.

Mike Gaynes
51 Posted 08/08/2018 at 19:59:25
Darren M, you're being a brat again.

Now calm down or I'll have you sent to GarPax's office so you can spend time with PROPER fucktards.

Darren Murphy
52 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:02:36
I'm brutally honest in job and life DB,

There's plenty of sad unfit c**ts I wouldn't pass for living let alone Marine fit.

We'll be fine...


*Sorry for using the "C" word, it's the only way I can describe these fools.

Rob Halligan
53 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:03:12
Just had a text from a mate saying Mina has already signed, pending a medical, with the fee only £20M. Seems strange to me to sign a player before a medical, bearing in mind the player could fail the medical? Will take this with a pinch of salt and only believe it when it actually happens.
Joe McMahon
54 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:04:50
Darren Murphy (46) bang on! I'm nearly 50 (so I go back a few years). I've heard enough of the 80's and Dixie.

Do City fans harp on about Joe Mercer, Colin Bell, and Franny Lee - No they don't. They are very happy these days, and hopefully for the first time in decades Evertonians can look to the future.

John Otway
55 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:06:52
Ah Darren Murphy #46. The refuge of the bully boy. "It was just sarcasm/irony". "You've got no sense of humour lol" etc.
Brent Stephens
56 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:07:00
Rob, who is your mate. Serious question. No names. Just how reliable (and job title at EFC).
Darren Murphy
57 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:07:43
Lmfao Mike G, nah man, jet lagged and frustrated bro.

Fuck Gar/Pax, i'd rather do a year rubbing green apples red.

We look pretty good this season if Parker n Zach hold up...Wendell JR is going to straight up ball, D looks on point.

Colin Glassar
59 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:11:45
Heard the same Rob. He’ll be unveiled tomorrow by all accounts. Mina, that is. Zouma is also expected to be at Goodison tomorrow as well as a MF player.
Rob Halligan
60 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:11:54
Wouldn't like to say, Brent. Don't want to put him on the spot if he's wrong.
Hugh Jenkins
61 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:12:44
Rob (53) - nothing unusual about that. A conditional contract is just that - it is only fulfilled if the conditions are met in full.

In this case the condition may well be the medical - i.e. pass and the contract is already signed - but only sealed on successful completion of the medical.

Fail the medical - and the sale is off.

But is he does pass the medical and the fee is also already agreed and signed off by Barca - he is ours - well ahead of the deadline.

Brent Stephens
62 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:14:18
Rob, I understand.

Colin, jeez! All of them?! "Typical Everton", eh Darren M!

Ed Prytherch
63 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:15:02
Everton might be contributing to stringing out the Mina deal. Barca are trying to get the most that they can for him but as we close on our deadline their PL options disappear and then the French can low ball them. Our "interest" in Rojo, etc might just be to turn the screw a little more.
Colin Glassar
64 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:17:01
Why is Bernard having his photo taken with a Newcastle fan? 🙄🙄🙄
Mike Gaynes
65 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:17:57
Darren, Parker and Zach think the best way to score more points is to let the other guys score so you get the ball back quicker. So we'll see. Love Wendell tho.
Rob Halligan
66 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:19:30
Isn't that a juventus shirt, colin?
Will Mabon
67 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:25:06
Are we getting close to the "Too many changes at once" threshold yet?
David Hallwood
68 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:25:14
Where is he flying in from. Venus? Or hes on the slowest plane in service
Darren Murphy
69 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:27:43
John Otway, listen man in no way did I mean to offend you whatsoever, i'm no bully man, I teach martial arts to marines Krav Maga and Jiu Jitsu and at 6ft 5 i'm pretty much a defence against the world terrors..or hope I am.

Joe...they do man, we have to look forward and as much as I love our past glory i'm as hungry as a rabid wolverine to see some currently. We've waited ages and any hint of Everton doing better i'm sadly all over it. Smash the league and crush the redshite .i'd be ecstatic man.

Stewart Lowe
70 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:30:11
Will#67
Not at all. Koeman was like a kid in a sweet shop and with no rhyme or reason to back up his signings. we now know how bad the players were that he bought and were never worth what we paid for them. Richarlison, Bernard and Digne are no where near as poor as Klassen, Bolasie and Cuca Martina. Silva has bought specific players to play specific roles, whereas Koeman bought whoever he fancied and tried to fit them in to roles they never played.
Darren Murphy
71 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:32:20
Very true Mike...Wendall is going to light it up, can't wait for once bro. Markkanen isn't too shabby either. Shades of dirk .
Paul Birmingham
72 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:36:18
This time tomorrow night, the preseason sketch over GP, may be clearer.

We’ve all been her3 too long, to appreciate that a deals, no deal until the players in the Everton blue shirt.

The mind is wonderful, the press and the RS Echo, are rarely correct. The lack of noise from GP suggests MB, will do his business in a professional and proper manner, but it’s no guarantee, that we will land any of the 5 -6 players, we’ve been linked with.

Going to the wire as usual, let’s hope tomorrow’s a good day for Evertonians.

Ray Roche
73 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:36:42
NSNO site reiterates what Colin,Rob etc. say above, Mina has signed subject to a medical. I think/hope the club are wanting to show 2,3,4 new signings all at once.
Darren Murphy
74 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:43:50
@72 Paul B'. Word man
Jack Convery
75 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:45:45
Nobody loves us everybody hates us - f n great - makes it all the better when we start using teams as turkeys this season ie stuff em !

You can hear it now - EFC are stuffing everybody its not fair - they bought their success - not like CFC or CIty of course. LFC haven't had success so not including them despite them being the biggest spenders during the EPL era. Can't say Spurs either as no success and they don't spend spend spend and neither do Arsenal by the way.

I define success as winning the EPL not just qualifying for the Chumps League.

Mike Gwyer
76 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:49:55

Is MB's buyout clause well fucking high. I mean seriously, we cannot loose him.

The man is aka James Bond, bringing gold dust back to Goodison Park whilst getting rid of players who are no longer required (and we have loads of them). Top, top man.

Zouma, Bernard and Mina. WTF.

Tony Everan
77 Posted 08/08/2018 at 20:54:37
Totally agree Mike, Brands has been pure class . You cant fault his professionalism, what an inspired appointment.

With the signings we have made and a progressive manager 4 of the top 6 will be looking over their shoulders at us. Rightfully so.

We are hunting them down this season.

Mark Taylor
78 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:04:46
Is Moshiri digging further into his own pocket, having said he won't, or is this maybe the first bit of Uasamov's money coming into the club?

Even if we sell Lookman for £20m, it would still mean a net spend of well over £50m if we are to believe the potential players and figures being bandied about.

Neil Copeland
79 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:07:07
Season ticket arrived today!!!! Seriously excited now, cant wait to see how the team sets up with the new lads in place.

As others have said, there is a real purpose behind each signing so far unlike the scatter gun approach last season. Starting to feel good to be blue again although trying to stay calm until we see the arrivals with the shirt on.

Neil Copeland
80 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:07:11
Season ticket arrived today!!!! Seriously excited now, cant wait to see how the team sets up with the new lads in place.

As others have said, there is a real purpose behind each signing so far unlike the scatter gun approach last season. Starting to feel good to be blue again although trying to stay calm until we see the arrivals with the shirt on.

Andrew Ellams
81 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:08:12
Mark £50million is less than half of our TV and Premier League money for this year.
Rob Halligan
82 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:10:46
Be either like a pig in shit tomorrow, or a turkey on a Bernard Matthews turkey farm the week before Christmas.
Ashley Roberts
83 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:10:51
With Mirales gone, the only dead wood to move on now includes Bolasie, Besic, Martina, Sandro and Shneiderlin (as I do not believe Silva can turn him into the type of player he is looking for). If Gomez arrives I also think that puts pressure on Sigurdsson. If MB can bring in Mina, Gomez, Zouma and Bernard tomorrow. I have to say that will be pretty amazing. such a far cry from what ever Walsh achieved. While I am excited about all of the potential signings, I do feel for some of the young talent we have. Where will they feature to build on their progress. I see Connolly is off to Wigan and then what about Dowell, Joe Williams, Davis etc. The young English talent cannot get a game because we all demand immediate success. If Ferguson had taken that approach in the early 90’s we may never have seen the likes of Beckham,Scholes Butt etc. The young lads we have are good but will never compete with seasoned International players.
Colin Glassar
84 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:16:06
Even worse Rob.
John Otway
85 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:17:36
Darren Murphy #69. Very gracious of you and greatly appreciated. Having followed the blues for some 60 years I guess I'm a bit prickly and just desperate for our team's success. I suspect I'm also not very au fait with on line sarcasm/irony. Best regards to you and yours. John. COYB
Stewart Lowe
86 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:19:50
£15m for Bolasie when he goes tomorrow, £12m for Klasssen, we believe £7m for Mori, totally £34m so far. We paid £40m for Richarlison and £18m for Digne, and nothing for Bernard. So that makes £24m net spend on players so far. That's an absolute snip compared to the TV money we receive.
Steve Hewitt
87 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:22:48
So, from my sad net trawl it looks like by 5pm tomorrow we will have signed
Richarlison, Digne, Virginia, Bernard, Mina, Zouma (loan - Just read Mourinho now wants him on a permanent).

Other possibilities - Possibly also Gomes (loan - I wouldn't cos he is injured) and N'Daiye.

Outside chance of Marega though a bit of a late one.

One regret - I think we should have gone for Lascelles.

Verdict:
I think that would represent a decent first window for the Brands and Silva era - now need to blend them well and at the same time keep the youngsters engaged.

In addition some excellent work on getting rid of the dead wood.

It's getting exciting

Gary Carter
88 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:23:36
I really can't believe the delusional statements on here, we sound like them over the road!!

Let's have it right to all those lauding the signings of Mina, Gomes, Bernard and Zouma and saying how brilliant Silva and Brands have done, so far we've signed Richarlison who was good for ten games last season and Digne who averages about 20 games a season throughout his career but might be good.

Kristian Boyce
89 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:27:09
Ray #73, the group signing pictures are always my favourite. Does anyone remember the picture of Stephen Hughes, Alex Nyarko, Duncan Ferguson, Alessandro Pistone, Niclas Alexandersson, Steve Watson and Thomas Gravesen who were all signed on the same day back in 2000? I've been trawling the internet but can't find it anymore.

I thought this was a start of a new era under Walter Smith and was very excited with these new players. Talk about disappointment!


Tom Bowers
90 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:27:41
Wow ! It must be a slap in the face for many players who helped Wolves get to the Prem. last season and are likely to be overlooked in favor of all the new signings.
I am sure there will be a lot of discontent for those affected.

Sometimes it can be a problem when 2 or three come in on big, big wages but 10 or 12 and they haven't finished yet ?

Thank God Everton only have 2 big signings so far.

James Marshall
91 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:29:12
I still think the Mina thing will happen - he has links here as he's mates with Richarlison and obviously knows Digne from Barca.

Yeah it's been drawn out, and personally I don't rate him but then I haven't really seen much of him to be completely honest.

He's only 23 so still time to get a lot better and he hasn't played much this year - what was it, 4 games in the world cup and 5 for Barca? Hardly a yardstick to measure how good he really is. If Barcelona bought him he must be half decent I spose.

Andrew Ellams
92 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:29:12
Stewart not forgetting a big chunk of the wage bill to.
Stewart Lowe
93 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:30:01
I would give Marega a wide birth. All the top European Leagues have bought up the top strikers from the Portuguese League and so Marega is like a best of whats left in my opinion. If he was so good, why hasn't he been snapped up before, as he is 27 years old. He wouldn't be any better than Niasse.
Steve Ferns
94 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:30:55
I'm confused now. I listened to the GrandOldTeam podcast with the Brazilian Everton fan and hit him up on twitter. He's pretty adamant that our boy Bernard can't really play inside, so he'll be left wing. That means moving Charlie to either the Walcott or Tosun position. Charlie is not a no10 either, he can't play centrally.

How can we sign two big players for the same position? Surely, Silva must see Bernard as a central playmaker in the David Silva mould and working with Sigurdsson in the way David Silva works with Bruyne?

What do Jay Wood and Fran think?

Mark Tanton
95 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:31:01
Good point Tom - it can’t be good for harmony or morale when a load of new players smash the wage structure. Recent history shows that the teams who stay up are the ones who keep the nucleus together. Wolves are taking a massive risk - relegation or top ten, it could go either way.
James Marshall
96 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:31:25
To be fair I'm better than Niasse and I'm in my mid 40's with jippy knees and a dodgy back.
Daniel A Johnson
97 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:33:20
For me the biggest positive this transfer window is that other teams are also bidding for the players we are interested in.

Past few windows we've been over paying for average players.

Siggy for £45M!!! No one was competing for that signature.

Eric Paul
98 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:33:56
Darren
Working with the forces I’m sure you understand the importance of history, tradition and heritage of regiments and the lengths they go to uphold certain traditions. Football fans are the same in many ways. at what point do you consign success to the history books.its all we have til the next time
Derek Knox
99 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:34:21
There are a few convinced the we have Mina, but the only place I have seen that is Newsnow. The same site that said we had him last week, then said he was going to United or Lyon.

Anyone have any more accurate information?

Daniel A Johnson
100 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:35:30
Mina signing will never happen...……..should have left it days ago.

Just my gut feeling its been a massive time sink

Tony Williams
101 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:35:31
Fab if it goes through, he really is a cracker, but still worried about getting a central defender (a top class one). If they see what type of players we are signing perhaps there a good chance of getting someone decent.
Rob Halligan
102 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:35:44
Derek, try this

https://www.nsno.co.uk/everton-news/2018/08/everton-seal-mina-deal/

Stewart Lowe
103 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:35:46
Andrew#92
Very true Andrew, but when you consider how much we were paying the rubbish we have got rid of, £150.000 per week to Rooney alone, Bernard aside, we have saved money on wages too. Brands wont be signing players on stupid contracts as that's what he is hired to do. Brand's needs signing up to a 10 year contract in my opinion. I also think we are lucky to have a Portuguese speaking Manager, as that can tip the balance for potential Portuguese and Brazilian players signing for us.
James Marshall
104 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:36:13
No Derek, no info just a feeling based on his links to Richarlison and Digne. Utd seem more intent on Maguire or Alderweireld from what I can gather.
Darren Murphy
105 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:36:33
@85 John, no worries man. I want the best for this club no matter, I grew up here, I moved, but my family and me bleeds and breathes blue. even my daughter is a new blue. God bless you, we'll be good to watch this season... bout time to man. Rickie will be tricky, doing a flicky, to Nard to Cenks right footie.
Steve Ferns
106 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:37:20
I think Silva wants height:

Yerry Mina is 6'5"
Kurt Zouma is 6'3"
Jamaal Lascelles is 6'2"
Ben Gibson is 6'2"

I posted some research ages ago, and I can't find it now. But every centre back who has played more than 5 games for Silva (in 7 seasons) has been 6'3" or taller, except for 2 of them, and he didn't sign either. He clearly has a preference for giants. This, I believe, is so they can head away the ball over the top or deter the opposition from playing it, due to the high line. The fullbacks tuck in as well, meaning the opposition need to hit us down the flanks, meaning the defenders have time to get back.

I've never actually seen Silva state a preference for giants, but over 7 seasons, surely it is more than a coincidence?

Colin Glassar
107 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:37:44
James, I am Niasse!
Tony Williams
108 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:39:23
I've always said go for Lascelles, too late now.
Daniel A Johnson
109 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:40:01
Agree Tony W.

Lascelles should have been a week 1 buy.

James Morgan
110 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:41:37
Great little option for us, nothing to lose. Tim Vickery said he has flashes of brilliance but wasn’t sure if he could cope with Premier League week in week out and mentioned about no other big teams being in for him, though Milan as good as welcomed him to the club and Atletico were keen 🤔
He was full of praise for Mina though. I think Rojo (at the right price) could be a good option as well, we need two centre halves.
Zouma on loan worth looking at. Tomorrow will be exciting!
Stewart Lowe
111 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:43:55
I wouldn't even be considering Lascelles as Newcastle would want upwards of £60m for him and we just wouldn't go to that. He will be way too expensive for Everton.
Michael Lynch
112 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:45:04
Get Bernard sown up, then Mina and Zouma, and top it off with a Drinkwater and I'll be happy.
Darren Murphy
113 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:45:52
Eric, of course I do man. History is what established our best days, our great club and who I serve for.

When you're up and down the world as much as me working their nuts off...you get pissed off regards us not having signed our targets when you finally get home to see the missus and daughter. Maybe it's jetlag man. Maybe it's Everton...

Derek Knox
114 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:47:00
Rob @102, thanks Rob, tried the link NSNO, but it does say reportedly, and rumoured to be, in the text without any actual confirmation.
Keith Harrison
115 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:48:11
Could Lascelles not put some of them built up arches in his boots to give him the extra inch Marco needs before signing him??

Or a few extra pairs of socks from sports direct, free off Ashley?

Eric Paul
116 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:48:59
I think it’s just Everton Darren they get into your soul. Enjoy your time with your family
Steve Ferns
117 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:50:21
3 inch heels in his shoes eh Keith?
James Marshall
118 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:50:53
According to SSN, Utd have now made a bit for Zouma.

Surely either us or Utd are going to get either Mina or Zouma now.

One each would seem fair.

James Marshall
119 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:51:13
*bid for Zouma

How the hell so you edit posts on here?

James Marshall
120 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:52:00
*do you edit posts.

Fucking hell.

Steve Ferns
121 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:52:43
James is drowning here, where's Bernard to save him?
Mark Tanton
122 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:55:58
Let’s rotate Zouma and Mina with Utd. We’ll have Mina for games where there is an odd number in the date...
Derek Knox
123 Posted 08/08/2018 at 21:58:03
James @118-120, calm down, calm down there friend, have you thought about Fly Fishing?

I have a book by JR Hartley, and it's ben endorsed by none other than Bernard Cribbins.

Keith Harrison
124 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:02:09
Jimi, get down off your Perch. Always Carping on about some old Trout or other.

And don't inhale the water as you flounder until uncle Bernie rescues you (hopefully not like uncle Len as older readers will remember) - the fish piss in it!

Rob Halligan
125 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:04:23
Is someone drowning? 😨😨😨
Mark Taylor
126 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:04:24
Andrew 81

But I hope you realise there are many other costs that have to be accounted for, from those admittedly large TV monies, before we even get into new player trading.

Not least the massive salaries and the depreciation/write down of the players we've already bought before this window.

I'm not aware of us having made anything close to a reasonable profit level that would enable our current/planned transfer spending to be financed other than through new investment. Both an on accounting basis and certainly on a cashflow basis.

James Marshall
127 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:06:34
Oh yes, because a drowning relative is now a laughing matter isn't it?

Well pardon me for imparting an interesting story about Bernard Cribbins on all of you. You wait till next season, anyone sitting next to me at Goodison is getting the full story all match.

James Marshall
128 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:07:20
Hang on, I forgot to mention me Grandad...
Rob Halligan
129 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:07:34
FFS there was a black band on SSN with breaking news on it for what seemed like ages. Was only about Chelsea signing a goalie for a few quid.
Adam Luszniak
130 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:08:37
Steve I listened to that same podcast and with all respect to the fella that produces it I’m not sure the guy he got on was exactly an expert. From what I can tell he was a Brazilian Toffee, but not a football journalist or anything like that. There’s nothing to say his assertion that Bernard can’t play centrally was correct.
Rob Halligan
131 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:08:41
James, where do you sit?
Neil Copeland
132 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:09:20
Meaning, James, that if you fall in the water you will be ok because Bernard Cribbins will be with you!
Steve Ferns
133 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:11:30
Yeah, he's just a fan from Brazil, but he'd have a better insight than most of us, because very few watch the Ukrainian league games.
Rob Halligan
134 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:12:17
SSN saying Maguire, Alderweireld and Boateng all want to play for United. No mention of Zouma.
Keith Harrison
135 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:12:21
James,

Bonamassa British Blues Explosion. All Beck, Page and Clapton numbers covered. Superb.

Right, offski to watch a film called 'Their Darkest Hour'.

Hope it's not an omen for tomorrow.

James Marshall
136 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:12:42
Lower Gwladys Street, Rob. I'll be the bloke in the fly fishing outfit.
Mark Taylor
137 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:12:47
James,

That's odd because I always get loads of time to edit posts. My last one, as I write, is still open for editing.

Maybe it's because the web operator thinks I'm a thick bastard who makes loads of errors, whereas they presume you are near perfect and so don't need the edit facility?

Rob Halligan
138 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:13:58
TFFT. I can throw things at you. 😂😂😂
Neil Copeland
139 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:15:26
Mark, if that is the I must be a total thick twat as I still have no idea how to edit despite being given loads of time to do it.
Tony Williams
140 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:15:32
Stewart (111) With the money we have received, all we have spent is £24M so I would have thought we could have a good shout for Lascelles.
James Marshall
141 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:16:39
I suspect my editing rights have been taken away because they know how much it irritates me when I make typos.

Bastards.

Rob, I'll have you ejected.

Rob Halligan
142 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:18:52
Ah, but I'm in the Upper Gwladys, so you wouldn't know. 😂😂
Stephen Bird
143 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:26:11
Rob, that will not be your first ejection, though of course you have not been always the first to blame 👍
Andy Crooks
144 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:26:35
Tomorrow, is our biggest day for many years.
Tom Bowers
145 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:33:02
So many ands, ifs, buts and maybes going down to the wire, as usual, but more affecting Everton than ever before. Obviously some are just fake news but who knows who will be where this time tomorrow?.

The transfer fees have gone through the roof so loan deals may be the better of two evils given the wage demands of individuals.

Let's hope whoever comes to Goodison settles in quickly and helps make this team competitive again.

Rob Halligan
146 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:33:19
Sir, I done nothing. 😕😕😕
Tony Everan
147 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:37:31
Lascelles will be a bit cheaper next May when the barcodes have had an Ashley induced nightmare of a season.
Christy Ring
148 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:41:16
Tomorrow should be an interesting day. Bernard, it seems, is a coup. I saw him playing a couple of years ago; he didn't stand out... hopefully it was a one-off.

Zouma would be a good addition; the Mina deal is still looking dodgy... I would take Drinkwater, and I hope Silva has a striker lined up – I don't rate Niasse.

Paco Jones
149 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:42:55
The Mirror reckons he's signed, I hate the Mirror, always putting the boot in whilst blowing smoke up the RS arses.
Gordon Crawford
150 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:44:56
It’s saying that he has signed for £150,000 a week. I hope he plays the way he can do.
Winston Williamson
151 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:47:49
I honestly think the younger players (Davies, Calvert-Lewin, Kenny etc) have been seriously hampered by the attitude and application of the senior players!

As we seem to be rooting out most of the bad apples in this window and replacing them with hungry, talented (relatively) younger senior players, I'm hoping the general attitude of the squad changes. Thus, this will rub off on the younger ‘homegrown' players and Improve them!

Very excited by the signings and potential signings! Even more excited by the (seemingly) professional approach of our DoF Brands!

James Marshall
152 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:52:31
Chelsea have signed a goalKepa for £71m.

Hugh Jenkins
153 Posted 08/08/2018 at 22:54:58
Will Chelsea sell / loan Zouma to a potential League Championship Rival (MU) or lend or sell him to a perceived "also ran" (EFC)?

You work it out and see where, if anywhere Zouma goes.

Unlike in the past, we can match the fee £ for £ - so it all comes down to who's bid Chelsea will accept.

Lewis Barclay
155 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:03:04
The confusing thing for me is that he went out of contract – did he refuse a new one and didn't anyone want him?
Rob Halligan
156 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:04:59
I thought the same, Hugh, but surely the player has a say in it also?

Chelsea sold Matic to United, so don't see no reason why they wouldn't well Zouma to them as well?

Gavin Johnson
157 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:13:45
Reports are emerging that United don't want Zouma. Tbh, why would they want him? He's worth about £10m and no really any better than the likes of Rojo and Smalling. He'd only be a stop gap loan for us until we got someone better. Although I'd advocate buying him cos he wouldn't cost crazy money and is better value than the United rejects available. He would be a good addition to our squad.

Fingers crossed we buy Mina and get Andre Gomes on a loan. Gomes could be a great replacement for Schneiderlin.

Hugh Jenkins
158 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:20:49
Hi Rob (156) - Note what you say and agree to an extent.

However, unlike Barcelona, there are no restrictions on Chelsea as to the number of foreign players on their books - so they are not obliged to sell a la Barcelona with Mina.

Secondly, because of that, they do not have to sell or loan to anyone - so if they say Everton and the player says MU - they can just sit tight and put him in the reserves - they can afford to do that financially.

So, if the player wants to play regularly - in the EPL - they can tell him which club he is going to - on loan.

For a straight sale - obviously the player's wishes will be more important - but, if the fee is the same it will come down to wages - so if we offer more and he thinks he might be on the bench more with Utd - he will pick us - if he has any sense!

Chris Gould
159 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:27:10
James, did you spend all evening thinking that one up?
Time well spent. I chuckled.
Tony Everan
160 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:32:48
Surprised Kepa hasn’t signed for Arbroath.
David Pearl
161 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:37:24
Really nice to see the camaraderie is back on these pages now and that we can start to see the light. (I mean, come on, last season we bought in 3 number 10s)

I think Siggy might struggle for his place once Bernard gets up to speed but at least he won’t be wasted on the left of midfield when picked.

Dan Brierley
162 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:48:43
Lewis 154, it seems that he refused a new contract as he believed he could play in a better league and improve his National call up chances, but nobody came in for him. I guess the Everton offer has been on the table for a while, but like Mina he was holding out for a CL club which never materialised. I am not at all a fan of these journeyman players that are only looking to line their pockets.

People are saying it's a coup as he's free, but not realising that he's been offered around Europe by his agent, and nobody else was willing to give him a 39 million pound 5 year contract, and not to mention God knows what in signing on and agent fees. Especially to recruit a left sided winger, which we already have in Richarlison. Yes, I'm sure he can play in the centre, but why not buy a player who is at his best in the centre instead of someone who 'can do a job' there?

Let's hope we can bring in a central midfielder and centre half by tomorrow to balance the side out properly.

Phil Williams
163 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:54:19
Private jet landed at Liverpool Airport 5:00pm today (I saw it myself going in). At 5:10 Mina backed from 1/2 to 1/4 to join us. By 5:30 he was down to 1/10. Coincidence?
Jerome Shields
164 Posted 08/08/2018 at 23:57:27
Everton have definitely stepped up a gear. Hopefully we get what we need.
Ernie Baywood
165 Posted 08/08/2018 at 00:01:29
The cynic in me says that if a deal is done, we'll still announce late on deadline day... otherwise people will still find the last few hours underwhelming. There's something about a late capture that gets people excited. Even the best business gets forgotten when there's no late signing.

Me? I'd rather we announced it and declared we aren't taking part in deadline day, turned the lights off and went home.

Dan Davies
166 Posted 09/08/2018 at 00:39:24
Newcastle want Swansea defender Fernandez. Looking to sell Lascelles possibly?
Jamie Sweet
167 Posted 09/08/2018 at 01:12:31
The Twitter ITK'ers have us confirming 3 or 4 players tomorrow.

Bernard - I've seen pictures of him at Finch Farm, so unless something ridiculous happens (never rule that out) he would be one (and a frickin' brilliant one at that may I add).

A lot of claims that Mina deal is done for around £28m, everything agreed pending a medical tomorrow. That's 2.

Number three and four seem most likely to be another CB and a CM.

Zouma on loan from Chelsea appears to be the most likely CB, but Man Utd now in the hunt.

For the CM, there's increasing level of noise about taking Andre Gomes as our third Barcelona player of the summer. Possibly on loan although they prefer a permanent deal.

Other names still out there are Drinkwater from Chelsea and Ndiaye from Stoke.

Most likely significant departure is Bolasie to 'Boro now that they have sold Traore to Wolves.

Just passing on info from my hours of trawling twitter. All the above have come from at least one reputable source, but as always, never believe a thing until you see them in the shirt!

One thing is certain, tomorrow should be a very interesting day!

Dan Parker
168 Posted 09/08/2018 at 01:30:36
We were excited with our signings last year and they mostly turned out to be disasters. I'm not going to get my hopes up too much which we're all guilty of, but it looks like we've been much more astute this summer.

It seems that the role of a goalkeeper has distinctly shifted in the game over the last six months; it's now looking like that outrageous amount pundits and opposition fans thought we'd paid for Pickford looks like an absolute bargain. Funny how the red shite and Chelsea keepers costing double gets little to no scrutiny compared with Pickford's transfer. Hypocrisy of the highest order.

Mark Andersson
169 Posted 09/08/2018 at 02:21:12
I'm with Gary 88. I watched a 20-minute video comp of the new Pele he scored two goals had more dribbles than a teething toddler but with no end product. If he singes for Everton, it will be tough for him in the Premier League, then he has all these fans who have already put him on a pedestal even before he's kicked a ball bemoaning how he's too lightweight...
As for falling in love with everything Blue, where is Rooney, Barkley and other true blue fans?

On a positive note I hope that the new manager and the team have a successful season ahead. As for if ya know ya history, when was the last time we beat Liverpool... It's about time we done that for the history books eh...

Jamie Crowley
170 Posted 09/08/2018 at 02:22:45
Dan -

Most were excited about the signings last year.

Difference between this year and last is I haven't read nearly as many dissenting, objecting posts as last off-season's transfers.

I'm much more confident about these dealings myself, personally.

And those posts voicing objections are, in the main, very silent this year.

You're spot on about Pickford too. Looks like a bargain now, doesn't it!

Bill Gienapp
171 Posted 09/08/2018 at 03:43:40
Apropos of nothing, my favorite recent deadline day memory was two years ago, when I woke up and it was all over social media that we had a deal in place with Porto for Yacine Brahimi.

I excitedly took a shower, then got out to discover it was now all over social media that the deal had fallen apart. Literally a span of ten minutes.

Mike Gaynes
172 Posted 09/08/2018 at 03:45:00
Bill, please do not shower until the window is closed.
Bill Gienapp
173 Posted 09/08/2018 at 04:02:10
It wasn't all bad, Mike. At least Spurs stepped in at the last second and bailed us out of the Sissoko panic buy. That one might have stood as the crown jewel of the Koeman era if it had gone through.

(we might not have ended up going for Schneiderlin, but imagine if we had those two layabouts in our midfield)

Mike Gaynes
174 Posted 09/08/2018 at 04:13:03
Ah, yeah, Bill, but the fact is that your cleanliness fetish clearly cost us Brahimi.

So play it safe and don't even brush your teeth, OK?

Bill Gienapp
175 Posted 09/08/2018 at 04:29:23
Thankfully the window now closes at 9:00 AM here on the US West Coast, Mike, whereas previously it was 3:00 in the afternoon. So it should be smooth sailing on the "avoid the bathroom at all costs" front.
Victor Yu
176 Posted 09/08/2018 at 04:40:48
Will there be enough time to secure a work permit though?

Albert Perkins
177 Posted 09/08/2018 at 04:48:50
I'm also on the west coast and will have trouble going to bed as the last day of the window starts at 10AM my time. Looks like I'll have to get up to pee a few times in the night and check my laptop. COYNewB.
Paul Mackay
178 Posted 09/08/2018 at 06:02:58
I really hope today is not an anti-climax like so many of the previous transfer deadline days. Let’s hope for lots of activity in and out.
Mike Gaynes
179 Posted 09/08/2018 at 06:05:11
Didn't realize you and I were in the same time zone, Bill. Where are ya?

I'm on the beach in Oregon.

Albert Perkins
180 Posted 09/08/2018 at 06:18:48
Bill #175 and Mike. #179. I'm expat in Eugene, Oregon and love to go to the beach, especially in the summer. Love to watch Everton play on my laptop overlooking the Pacific Ocean as the sun rises over Yachats. Hoping to enjoy the experience a lot more this season.
Will Mabon
181 Posted 09/08/2018 at 07:36:46
Stewart @ 70 - it was only a flippant remark but it has been observed that many changes can be an upheaval for a team.

Funny that you called these Silva/Brands signings "Much less poor" than Koeman's, not, "Much better"! But I know what you mean.

Bill Gienapp
182 Posted 09/08/2018 at 09:04:57
Mike and Albert - I live in Los Angeles. One of my best friends lives in Portland, so I usually head up to Oregon at least once a year to visit him and his family. It's a great state.
Justin Doone
183 Posted 09/08/2018 at 12:57:56
Bernard's greatest asset is pace and for me he's a failed winger that hasn't found his best position.
I don't think he's a midfield player like Silva simply because he's a more forward thinking player.
I'd suggest the nearest player we have to him is Lookman, (it gets harder to see him stay a blue).
Not an out and out winger, not a central midfielder. He's a modern forward or No.10 a bit like Shaqiri.
I'm hoping he's more an Ericsson and more importantly the modern version, not the floater when he first joined spurs.

Ricy is without a doubt the star. He and Berni could be a great attacking duo.

If they have release clauses so be it. Just enjoy watching them whilst we can and when things aren't going well remember back to last season which will hopefully enthuse all Evertonians to support and not bemoan possibly our greatest attacking squad of the modern era, (sorry I got a little excited).

We may not win or play well everygame but the potential, the options, the excitement will be something we havn't had for a long time.

I always thought last years signings were average and AT THE TIME questioned the £30m for Pickford. He still has a lot to learn and improve but the basics are all there. His physical stature means he'll never command the 6 year box like the very best but he's a solid/good goalkeeper but still expensive. Luckily that is less of an issue with Moshiri and if he's our no.1 for 10 years worth it.

In Ricy and Berni we now have genuine quality.
I can't say much on Digne or Mina (if signed) but if they do the basics well without mistakes and add a bit of pace that we lack then great.
I hope our defenders don't cost us to many points and Silva can gel the team whilst using the youngsters.

Steve Ferns
184 Posted 09/08/2018 at 13:12:34
How much have you seen Bernard Justin? I saw the Shaktar games whilst on Fonseca watch this year. But, I thought Bernard was their outstanding attacking player and wouldn't describe him in the way you did as a failed winger who hasn't found his best position. But I've seen him less than 10 times and always on TV.
Anthony Hawkins
185 Posted 09/08/2018 at 15:15:45
I’m keen to know how it can take 24 hours to finalise the deal? How come it’s not finished? Then there’s the Mina deal. Are they going to make us wait until 5pm?
Michael Nisbet
186 Posted 09/08/2018 at 16:50:08
Confirmed signed!!!
John Sagar
187 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:02:37
Good day for the Toffees - Let's just savour the moment here that we have well and truly tugged the rug from under some serious money men - excellent result by EFC getting these new lads on board - Fingers crossed now it brings home the results we so desperately need . COYB
Andy Walker
188 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:05:32
Gomes confirmed on loan.
Eoin O D
189 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:09:32
From United rejects to Barca rejects. That's progress! I am genuinely happy though :)
Andy Walker
190 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:19:54
One more announcement could still be on the way according to SSp news.
Anthony Hawkins
191 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:26:06
No complaints on the quality coming in, just confused how the players will line up on Saturday and beyond!
Fran Mitchell
192 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:31:17
Look at City, Liverpool, and co and none of them have a none have a set first 11 or best 11. This is something new for us to adapt to, but finally, we have quality options all over the pitch and on the bench.

Brands and Silva have done brilliantly, signed quality, all young but proven. 6 new first team players seemed impossible at the start of the window, and we didn't sell any of our best players (Pickford, Coleman) and as of yet none of our talented youngsters (Lookman, Davies).

Well done Mr Brands and Mr Silva.

Denis Richardson
193 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:35:32
Well what's that? Bernard, Mina, Digne, Gomes, Richarlison all in. All first teamers so the first XI will have 50% new outfield players.

Will take time to gel but that is some window - excellent work. Every player in is miles better than what we had on the books. We also managed to get 6 senior squad members off the books this coming season so that's not a bad effort at all.

Dressing room is going to be completely different this seasons, 5 in 6 out - hopefully no bad eggs. Defence is still an issue as one of Jags or Keane is going to have to play regular and both are not up to it.

John Pendleton
194 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:37:21
Bernard, Richarlison, Gomes, Mina and Digne and maybe one more to come. Silence to rumours to ink on paper in record time. Can see at least three starting against Wolves. What's this funny sensation in my stomach?
Stewart Lowe
195 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:43:58
Did we officially get Zouma???? Does anyone know? There was all the frenzy about the three we did get, does it mean in the end we didnt get Zouma?
Karl Jones
196 Posted 09/08/2018 at 17:58:50
Stewart 195...They have until 7PM to agree the deal. They have lodged a Pre contract form with the PL.
Steven Jones
197 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:00:23
Oh I have had fingers, toes, bollocks crossed on this one .

I had an ex wife from Donetsk and went to watch a game and it was a top six game - he was brilliant and dominated - I thought he was 28+ the way he went about things. They went three up in 15 mins and he was the orchestrator and the assassin at the same time . just thought he was a brilliant and a Brazilian at the end of his career in lowly Ukraine . cannot believe he is only 25 now and probably 22/23 then.

Hi attitude is ace!

We have a proper number 10 on our hands . Sx

Derek Taylor
198 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:03:00
The big question remains unanswered.

WHO IS GOING TO SCORE THE GOALS ?

Stephen McNally
199 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:04:20
Everton are showing ambition as a club. They spent a fortune last summer and have spent almost a further £100 million in this window. It would appear that the blues have added real quality in this window with: Richarlison, Digne, Mina, Gomes and Bernard lets just hope Silva can get them performing to a high level quickly.
Clive Mitchell
200 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:17:04
Derek, 198 - agree that's the question provided we've now got Mina and Zouma to make Keane buck his ideas up. These summer signings feel a lot stronger than last summer's, but on your question I think we have to hope for 8+ each from Tosun, Niasse, Richarlison, Walcott, Bernard and Sigurdsson. Unless Hibbo makes a comeback.
Steve Ferns
201 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:20:25
Tosun, Walcott and Richarlison, Derek.

I would put a bet on us scoring over 80 goals this season, an average of over 2 per game. I just hope we can stop them going in at other end too.

Derek Taylor
202 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:30:53
Steve, be sure to let us know what odds you get !
Colin Glassar
203 Posted 09/08/2018 at 18:41:57
With all these Brazilians coming on board does that mean Neymar is a cert for January? Samba pa ti and all that.
Dave Older
204 Posted 09/08/2018 at 19:01:01
I haven't had one for a while, but this window has given me a toffeegasm!!!!
Andrew Wayne
205 Posted 09/08/2018 at 19:18:52
So blew the data allowance on the phone and broken the internet usage policy rules at work today but who cares? I haven't been this excited since Xmas Eve as a kid. ST deadline day I was determined not to renew after Koeman and Allardyce and the Spanish fraudster but after doing the hokey-cokey with the tickets in the OS shopping basket I did sign up. Granted we may be in for another season of discontent after last years shopping spree but I doubt it. Missus refused to go towards the end of last season and now I suspect her and Number 1 son will be fighting over the other ST. Mine is now locked down. BTW anyone else still waiting on ST delivery?
Martin Berry
206 Posted 09/08/2018 at 19:19:45
Welcome St Bernard, I am sure you bring the right spirit to the club.
I real handful for defenders despite being a "tiddler", tricky, with pace and skill I think we are going to see some really great stuff upfront.
Tosun will get the service he needs and score a lot of goals.
Denis Richardson
207 Posted 09/08/2018 at 20:15:05
Steve 201. I’ll gladly take the other side of that bet!

80+ league goals? That would mean at least one player netting 20+ unless you’re saying 6 or 7 of the team are going to get 10+?

Been an exciting window but let’s try to stay in realty.

(I’ll also have what you’re smoking:-)

Stephen McNally
208 Posted 09/08/2018 at 20:25:30
I expect this fella to be a big hit this season.
Steve Ferns
209 Posted 09/08/2018 at 20:33:47
I’m only bet on the national, sorry Denis. I had my tongue in my cheek by the way!

I’ve just listened to Greg O’Keefe / Tony Scott’s All together Now podcast. Their Brazilian expert has Bernard down as a central attacking midfielder, arriving late in the box (Tim Cahill style?) and scoring or putting others through. He was raving about him.

Paul Mackay
210 Posted 09/08/2018 at 20:50:36
Seems to play the same role as Sigurdsson so will be interesting to see who is first choice. I don’t see Sigurdsson being as effective out wide or as a number 8 to accomodate both in the same side.
Marcus Leigh
211 Posted 09/08/2018 at 21:02:17
Finally, finally, a vision for the future successfully executed. And all pulled together within just a few weeks of M&M arriving, assessing and determining what was required to turn the boat around. First steps, I know - but so far so good it would seem.

Loads of respect to the new management team, and to Moshiri for bankrolling their ambition. Let's hope that this time it all comes together like a rather cunning plan.

Bring on the new season!

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

212 Posted 09/08/2018 at 21:56:45
Steve @ 209.

I sought out and listened to the podcast you referenced. The American-Brazilian journo offers a fair assessment of Bernard.

At 18-19 Bernard was ear-marked as a possible 'wunderkid' in Brazil. At that age he played with ex-Evertonian Jo and the ex-Barca Ronaldinho in a very good Atletico Mineiro side that won the South American Champions League equivalent, the Libertadores.

Indeed, he quickly found himself in the national squad at 20, although rarely in the starting XI. Felipe Scolari liked him, named him in the Brazil 2014 home World Cup squad. He had a couple of sub appearances, but then his one and only full game for Brazil was to replace the injured Neymar in the 7-1 semi-final drubbing by Germany.

He has not got near a Brazilian squad since. Dunga turned away from many of the 2014 squad. Tite has been more forgiving, recalling the best and adding new talent. Given the competition in his position – Coutinho, Willian, Douglas, Costa – it's hardly surprising.

He actually transferred to Ukraine BEFORE the 2014 World Cup, so the fact he did so just shy of 21 and that he has performed so well in a totally alien culture, so far from home, is a credit to his resilience and determination. Living and playing in the city of Liverpool will be a doddle for him.

But, he is something of a forgotten man here in Brazil. I told my missus last night we were in for Bernard. "Who?" she asked. An explanation didn't recall him for her. I showed her a photo. "Oh THAT Bernard! Jesus, he looks old! Where is he now? How old is he?"

Now Brazilians take great pride in their footballers who do well overseas and they often feature in mini features in sports programs. Bernard has not figured. And for that reason I have no idea how he has performed in his time in Ukraine.

From what I know of the player from his time in Brazil, together with the squad now assembled at Goodison, I said a couple of days ago he shouldn't be viewed as a winger. For me, he should be playing more centrally in an advanced midfield role with the liberty to roam freely. He could possibly play a wide left midfield role, a la Stevie Pienaar, from where he can cut in and use his stronger right foot. Not that his left leg is merely to stand on!

He has the technical ability and the vision to take advantage of any openings, both for himself and for team mates. I am not in the least bit concerned about his diminutive stature. Either he or the ball will be gone before a Neanderthal defender can get close to him.

Given today's dealings, I now have no idea what constitutes our best starting XI. And I take that as a huge positive. We now have genuine competition across (most) positions and Silva has many options to shuffle the pack, depending on the opposition.

Like you, I see lots of interesting potential (and potent) partnerships in our newly revamped squad. Let's hope they all click.

Tony Williams
213 Posted 09/08/2018 at 22:09:44
Pickford

Coleman Keane Mina Digne

Sigurdsson Gueye Bernard

Walcott Tosun Richarlison

Fran Mitchell
214 Posted 09/08/2018 at 22:19:20
Out: Williams In: Mina
Out: Jags (to bench) In: Zouma (touch wood)
Out : Baines (to bench) In: Digne
Out: Klassenn In: Gomes
Out: Mirallas In: Richarilson
Out: Rooney In: Bernard

Remarkable work.

Dave Abrahams
215 Posted 09/08/2018 at 22:24:32
I'd never heard of Bernard until we were reported as being interested in signing him, checking him on Utube he reminded me of Juniniho who played for Middlesboro a few years ago, hope he does as well as that lad for them.

With the dealings today and the whole of the transfer window I feel we are are in a much stronger and better position to start the season than we were, I know we will see much better football this season than last, mind you I remember saying the very same sentence this time last year.

Denis Richardson
216 Posted 09/08/2018 at 22:35:56
Looks like we’ve finally brought in midfielders who can pick a pass and move. Something we’ve been lacking fo so so long across the park.

The sides going to be almost unrecognisable. Keane and Jags still worry me but hopefully Zouma will sneak in.

We could be starting with 6 new outfield players on Sat! On paper just missing a top striker to challenge top 6 but not far off.

Jerome Shields
217 Posted 09/08/2018 at 22:54:54
It's been a good transfer window. Already established contacts with Chelsea and Barcelona have comes up trumps, helped by the professionalism of Brands,

Bernard was the type of player that wouldn't have joined us last year, but Brands and Silva impressed. Thank goodness we haven't got involved in any Man Utd rejects, that particular contact can fall off the tree.

Everton look as if they have a plan at last.

Steve Ferns
218 Posted 09/08/2018 at 23:17:43
Nice one Jay.

Dave didn't you watch Shaktar v Man City last December. Bernard scored that cracker, people on here were talking Fonseca up as Everton manager and hoping he brought Bernard and Fred with him.

Jerome, listen to what the players are saying in their interviews. Sure, they'll give lip service to the manager always, but reading between the lines here, it is quite clear that they have had lengthy conversations with Silva. He has told Bernard where he will play, how he will play, how Everton will play, how others will work around him. He's spelled out his vision and how he can make Bernard a better player.

Just imagine Gravy Chops: "Well Bernerd (sic), thanks for meeting me, if you aren't drinking that pint of wine, let me know, I'll knock this one back in no time. Anyway, down to business.

So, you'll love it at Everton. You've met Walshy, top bloke, if you want to know the best places to visit in Italy he's your man. Then there's shakey, he'll do a lot of work with you, he'll have you paired with Jags and you can learn how to tackle, you'll need to do a lot of that.

Rylands Morgan has this gym programme made up for you, there's a lot of weights in there Bernie, you're going to need to put on a couple of stone. Here's your new boots, I had these specially made by Umbro for you, it's got a platform heel in it, so you can get a bit more height for heading ...

Bernie, where you going Bernie? I haven't told you about how I can get you to play like Kevin Davies yet ...

Bernie, come back mate ... you're agent was giving me a £2m kick back for this deal! Bernie!!!"

Steve Ferns
219 Posted 10/08/2018 at 00:43:38
I'm loving watching him in action.
Mike Gaynes
220 Posted 10/08/2018 at 00:51:09
Yeah, that goal against City was the first time I'd seen him. Lifted me right out of my chair. Came on here that day and said I'd love for us to get him. Never imagined it would happen.

Only once before have I spotted a player that we wound up buying -- Oviedo.

Dan Parker
221 Posted 10/08/2018 at 02:04:20
Brilliant window. Lots of hard work gone in by the club to make all this happen. Well done to everyone involved. Forward-looking. Put the ghost of summers past to bed
John Pierce
222 Posted 10/08/2018 at 02:25:03
My hope that becomes reality. We have a numerous players the opposition now have to worry about.

That should net us space on the pitch as defenses have to spread themselves.

We look with those players now bought capable of counter attack and breaking down teams.

I think oddly, unless Tosun scores plenty he will be most under pressure and Richarlison a left forward/striker will get our goals. A hunch, his physique might just be the key.

I’d play Bernard from the left a la Arteta before his ACL.

Crucially we now have two players, Sigurdsson and Bernard who can create from set pieces and open play.

Can Silva knit it together?

Ernie Baywood
223 Posted 10/08/2018 at 03:29:40
Just watched the video... Now we all know how little they can mean but... Wow!

Is he physical enough? Quick enough? Will he adapt to the country or to the league? Don't know.

But he's a talent. I can't wait to see this guy play. My kids are going love him - which means so much to an expat raising young children.
Have we ever had a player with his kind of skills before?

I know this could all blow up in our faces. All these options could be amazing or they could lead to shoe horning players in at the expense of the team. The chance of flopping are far greater than success (when flopping is categorised as 7th down).

But I'm excited. And I've got hope. It's about all I ask for from my football team... give me those two things.

Justin Doone
224 Posted 10/08/2018 at 03:44:27
There has been more excitement in the last 48 hours than the previous 48 weeks.

It's a shame Barca have a buy back option (I wonder how much and is it only in the summer window, £45m?) and hopefully the two loanees can not be recalled mid-season? I'd hate our season to be derailed because of clauses and recalls by parent clubs etc.

It does give us an initial boost and another season to find the permanent players we will need as there has been no mention of pre agreed purchase fees.

If we and they do well we may struggle to keep them and that goes for our manager too but history tells me we will be exciting but inconsistent trying to gel a new team.

Defensively I'm not convinced Mina and Zouma are the answer. Both still young and relatively inexperienced but potentially and on paper they are an improvement.

It's just pleasing that we have managed to bring in genuine top quality in Ric and Gomes. Bernard is also very good but less proven in my view.

Knowing our bad luck injuries or something will ravage the team and if anything happens to Pickford injury or bad form we are left with Stek who's no longer good enough for the Premier league.

Tosun will remain striker, Walcott never good enough but Ric and DCL can cover and we have 4 genuine goal threats now.

I don't think all new signings will or should start. Perhaps 4 debuts against Wolves. I don't think we will win either but I'm excited for the season and looking forward to enjoying the football we play and how it develops.

Zahid Ibrahim
225 Posted 10/08/2018 at 05:11:45
Brands truly delivers! Considering our clear lack of appeal to attract even average players, major chievement to bring in the likes of Bernard, Mina, Gomes & potentially Zouma in addition to previously acquired Digne & Richarlison. Massive overhaul for the squad especially XI. Can't wait for the season to kick-off.

Now, we truly hv options for interchanheable play upfront with Richarlison, Tosun, Walcott, Sigurdsson & Bernard with Niasse waiting to come in with something very diff. Great opportunity for the likes of Lookman, Dowell & Calvert-Lewin to learn their trade.

Jerome Shields
226 Posted 10/08/2018 at 05:36:32
Steve (#219),

It's clear that the new recruits have bought into Silva's thinking. There has definitely been a transformation in how Everton is perceived to incoming players. Halfway through the window, suddenly funds where made available but, more importantly, Brands & Silva knew what to do with the funds and were capable negotiators.

I was concerned about the purchase of Richarlison, which signaled the change, but he definitely has potential. The purchase of the other players really continues the building of this potential and hopefully will allow existing players to realise theirs.

Everton where an awful team to play for with a gaping hole in the defence and midfield players playing deep, continuously losing possession, wingers playing deep trying to link up with forwards, and forwards waiting for loose ball / substitution.

It's noticeable that the out list is second in length to Chelsea, who seem to have had an attitude problem in the squad also and it is great that Man Utd have an attitude in the squad and we didn't help them to get rid of it.

Steve Brown
227 Posted 10/08/2018 at 05:38:09
It would be good to see Bernard challenging Sigurdsson for the CAM role. He will interact perfectly with Walcott, Tosun and Richarlison.

To be honest, I can't remember Sigurddson having a truly great game for Everton since he arrived.

Albert Perkins
228 Posted 10/08/2018 at 05:57:49
The spendy Richarlison might prove to have been the catalyst for other quality players. That and the obvious respect incomings have for Brands & Silva. This Brands is something else. What we thought we were getting with his predecessor. Solid players with great potential.
John Malone
229 Posted 10/08/2018 at 07:12:05
What's all the fuss about?

We've signed a young defender who was deemed surplus to requirements at Barca and, apart from his goals at set pieces in the World Cup, didn't look a great player.

Andre Gomes, who was also deemed surplus, is injured until October.

Zouma, who can't get a game for Chelsea, has just got relegated with Stoke!

The only signing I'm excited about and who I think can really change our dynamic is Bernard with his skills and goalscoring ability.

Schneiderlin will still be playing centre-mid, not putting tackles in and not tracking his runners like a shithouse on Saturday.

Until we get some real character and quality in the middle of the park, I don't see us being much better than what we are.

Sorry, but I just don't see it where the massive difference will be with these signings.

Dermot Byrne
230 Posted 10/08/2018 at 07:33:37
Steve #319: many thanks for those links showing Bernard. I know videos are highlights etc but wow! Things that strike me are energy and pace. First time shots. But most of all, a player that appears to think and look around before he gets the ball rather than getting it, going into shock and then passing backwards or sideways. Also backed by a manager who seems to want that too.

I think this guy could make a big difference to us as a team and hopefully get the rest thinking quicker and looking forwards rather than sideways.

Kid at Christmas!

Richard Lyons
231 Posted 10/08/2018 at 10:02:14
John #229 "Zouma who can't get a game for Chelsea an has just got relegated with Stoke!"

Remember that Lukaku couldn't get a game for Chelsea and had a season with West Brom before joining us on loan. We all know what happened then...

OK, WBA didn't get relegated, but come on, they're not exactly a club which has ever set the pulse racing.

By all accounts, Zouma had an excellent season at Stoke. He's big and fast - what's not to like?

David Johson
232 Posted 10/08/2018 at 10:10:48
Why are Brazilian names so dull now?! From Jarizinho, Rivelino to Fred, Bernard...
John Malone
233 Posted 10/08/2018 at 11:52:13
Richard, I actually rate Zouma and was hoping we'd get him more than Mina for the fact he is proven in the Premier League and is strong and fast as you've stated, but does his signing which is not yet confirmed change our side that much?

I really hope all our signing's turn out great and make us a top team but I'm not convinced any as good as for, eg, an Aguero, Kompany or De Bruyne signing.

Time will tell!


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