Koeman will look to solidify midfield position first

Everton were being linked with all sorts of names even before the announcement of Ronald Koeman as the new manager, thanks to majority owner Farhad Moshiri committing to spend over £100million in transfer funds this summer.

Now that Koeman is officially in charge though, it’s the midfield position that is being consistently talked about. The ink was barely dry on the Dutchman’s contract before AS Roma’s Kevin Strootman, his fellow countryman, was mentioned as a target. However, the player’s unfortunate injury history puts him in Darron Gibson territory, with only 36 appearances in three seasons. Koeman would be hesitant to develop his game plan around the midfielder with that background.

Next to be mentioned as the Blues’ pivot was Axel Witsel, who is at the Euro 2016 and scored yesterday alongside Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian has mentioned recently about wanting out of Zenit St. Petersburg and playing in England or Italy.

"I want to try a new experience in a different League, a new challenge.

"I hope to step up a level and play in a big European club. My future could be in Italy or in England. It doesn't matter if I go to Serie A or the Premier League, as long as it's a big club."

Now the latest player to be linked to the Toffees is one that Koeman has some experience with at Southampton. Morgan Schneiderlin established his reputation as one of the best holding midfielders in the English game at the Saints, but finds himself in turmoil at Old Trafford after just one season there.

New Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is said to be looking at different options after an underwhelming season in the midfield area, with his former pivot at Chelsea Nemanja Matic being lined up for a transfer.

Schneiderlin moved to United at the end of the 2014-15 season for a £25million fee, and the Red Devils are said to be looking for a similar amount for the player.

Gareth Barry will be another year older this coming season, and James McCarthy’s abysmal season seems to be continuing for the Republic of Ireland at the Euros, as witnessed in yesterday’s 3-0 loss to Belgium.

Which of the three midfielders would you like to see at Everton, or do you have someone else in mind?