As Everton look to rebuild with the appointment of new manager Ronald Koeman, majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri has given Evertonians new hope as he looks to get the club into the Champions League.
The Iranian’s vision reportedly begins with him handing Koeman a transfer kitty of over £100million, with a ‘marquee signing’ set to be brought in to kick off the new era at Goodison Park.
With this is mind, I’ve taken a look at three players who could be signed who’d fit the ‘marquee signing’ tag:
Joe Hart
Tenuously linked with the Blues, Hart would be a fantastic signing for Ronald Koeman and would well and truly close the door for the need of a world-class goalkeeper.
Hart, 29, has become known as one of Europe’s best ‘keepers over the last few years and has held his spot as Manchester City’s No.1 since the 2010/11 season after a string of loans.
The Shrewsbury-born shot stopper holds an impressive record of 119 clean sheets in 302 appearances, and has played a big part in City’s recent two Premier League titles.
A move for the England international could be a perfect move for Everton who are in the market following Tim Howard’s departure.
With rumours of Pep Guardiola keen on signing Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Hart may seek a move where he’ll be guaranteed a starting spot. A move would certainly prove Everton mean business.
AXEL WITSEL
With central midfield a position Koeman seems to be targeting, Axel Witsel could be a good signing to strengthen the often exposed area.
Linked with Everton, the Belgian international could finally make his move to the Premier League this summer.
The 27-year-old has recently expressed an interest in another challenge, with English football a possibility.
Known to be a good all around player, the Zenit man can provide what James McCarthy and Gareth Barry can’t – which is what Koeman may seek this summer.
Witsel is capable of being utilised as a defensive or central midfielder and would prove a great option for Everton.
Despite a lack of experience playing in the Premier League, the powerful, well-rounded midfielder would no doubt be able to fit the physicality of the English game.
After years of being linked with a move to England, the Belgian international could see his dream come true.
JUAN MATA
With Jose Mourinho’s appointment at Old Trafford, Mata has found himself subsequently linked with a move away. The Spaniard was out-of-favour with Mourinho at Chelsea, which is why he made the move to Manchester in the first place.
Everton now see themselves as the bookies’ favourites to land the 28-year-old.
Regarded as one of the best playmakers in the league, Mata is richly experienced in England having played 168 games since his move from Valencia in 2011.
Winning a number of accolades in England, most recently the FA Cup in May, Mata is no stranger to success. With a Champions League, Premier League, European Championship and a World Cup under his belt, the former Chelsea Player of the Season is exactly what Everton need in their ranks. A winner.
Capable of operating from the right, or centre, the 5’7″ attacker certainly knows how to get a team ticking with 68 goals and 75 assists from the 286 games of his career.
Having missed out on a place in Spain’s Euro 2016 squad, Mata may seek a move this summer to see himself back involved with his nation.
Signing the former Real Madrid trainee would prove a massive sign of intent.
