New Everton boss Ronald Koeman will undoubtedly have an eye on what’s happening over in France this summer.
The Dutchman will target something of a squad overhaul over the next couple of months as he begins to stamp his own authority on a club that had stagnated both on and off the pitch over the last couple of years.
But spirits will be high at Goodison Park this summer; a takeover, promise of huge transfer funds and the installation of an exciting, Premier League proven manager tends to do that.
Koeman’s first objective, no doubt, will be to improve on Roberto Martinez’ 11th place finish last term, as well as improve the style of football on show to the Goodison faithful.
And what better place to look for new additions to help achieve those targets than the European Championships?
So here are FIVE players Koeman could target to help get his Everton revolution underway…
Jonny Evans
Fans and pundits can say what they want about Evans’ ultra aggressive style of defending, but he won a Premier League title with Manchester United.
John Stones is a prize asset, of course, but is the subject of transfer speculation and is expected to leave in the summer – and the experienced Evans could replace him at centre back.
Karol Linetty
A physical, perpetually working centre midfielder, Linetty is only 21-years-old and has fared well internationally.
Everton need reinforcements at the position with Leon Osman and Darren Gibson departing.
Kamil Glik
The former Real Madrid product returned to form this season with Torino, and a potential move away this summer is possible.
Glik is a dominant aerial threat who ventures forward on set pieces. He is another candidate to replace the highly sought after John Stones.
Kyle Lafferty
Lafferty’s seven goals in qualifying for the EUROs came as a pleasant surprise for Northern Ireland.
Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has hinted that he wants out of Everton this summer, after scoring 18 goals for the side this season.
Could Lafferty be a cost-effective replacement?
Shkodran Mustafa
He produced for Valencia this season, and he finds himself competing with a slew of top defenders on the German national squad.
Everton need to tighten up their defence after conceding 55 goals this season— sixth worst in the Premier League.
So Mustafa should be high on Koeman’s wishlist this summer.
