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Martinez reveals spending plans and Deulofeu injury update

Speaking ahead of Monday's trip to West Brom, Roberto Martinez has confirmed he has a sizeable amount of cash to spend while also updating us on the progress of Gerard Deulofeu.

Paul Thomas

With Romelu Lukaku now the club's only fit senior striker after Nikica Jelavic's sale to Hull, Everton really do need to press on with the hunt for a new striker.

The potential loan deal for Monaco striker Lacinia Traore suggests Martinez has not found a ideal permanent solution in the January transfer market, but is keen to point out that it is not due to lack of funds.

Indeed the Spaniard has been quite open in his admission that he is sitting on a sizeable kitty - but will only spend it on the right player.

"We have got money because we managed to get £40m for three players. But what is important is not spending money for the sake of it, but with a clear, long-term strategy. For me that is very important. I need to keep the August window in consideration as well."

That makes me think that a permanent deal for Lukaku could well be an option. With Everton doing so well, there is sense in holding the money back and seeing whether the club can snatch a top four place, instantly making the club more appealing in the summer.

However, should we miss out on a top four place, then I'm sure Martinez will have a back up should the Belgian return to parent club Chelsea.

The Traore deal could well be the best of both worlds - providing  Everton with a timely striking boost but ensuringthere is money to spend in the summer, generally considered a better time to shop around for new players.

Elsewhere, Martinez revealed his delight at the progress Gerard Deulofeu has been making from his hamstring injury.

The Barcelona winger sustained the injury against Fulham in December and was expected to be fit by the end of the month.

Martinez didn't put a timeframe on the youngster's return, though the Liverpool Echo said the end of  February, suggesting the injury was more serious than first thought.

Despite that rather gloomy prediction, the boss is pleased with his progress after one of the medical team flew out to Spain to check on him.

"He’s doing really well. One of our physios, Richard Porter, went across last week to spend a day with him. Gerard is desperate to come back and is working twice a day doing really well. He’s fighting hard to get fully fit.

"At the moment he’s bang on schedule and is healing really well. We’re pleased. His cans have reaffirmed he’s on the right track."

Is Martinez right to sit on the money? How much will we miss Deulofeu? Have your say below.