Koeman confirms Everton want Depay

Everton have been heavily linked with Manchester United’s Memphis Depay in recent weeks. It is no secret that manager Ronald Koeman is a fan of his fellow Dutchman, and he confirmed it in an interview with Fox Sports Netherlands earlier today.

Translated: “I would like to get to Memphis in the winter break to Everton."

Koeman has been known to be a straight-talking manager during his time in the Premier League, so there is no reason to doubt that he is looking to sign the forward. One does wonder if the club are losing leverage though with his interest being put out in the open like this.

Depay was signed in the summer of 2015 by former Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal. Despite his potential, the 22-year-old has only started once under Jose Mourinho took over in the summer, and is reported to be surplus to requirements.

Asked about the attacker, Koeman told Fox Sports' "De Tafel van Kees" programme:

"I would like to sign him. I think he's an interesting player. He has great individual qualities.

"He just needs to play games."

The Dutchman is primarily a left winger, where Kevin Mirallas has often struggled this season. Should Koeman get his man, it’s likely that Yannick Bolasie and Depay will be the Blues starting wingers, with Gerard Deulofeu and Mirallas relegated to back up duties.

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