Ronald Koeman says he will not compromise and settle for second choice January targets as Everton completed their first business of the new year.
Everton have signed 19-year-old Ademola Lookman for an initial £7.5 million from Charlton, but Koeman has his sights on much more.
United duo Morgan Schneiderlin and Memphis Depay remain a priority – a £19 million bid for Schneiderlin has already been rebuffed – but if negotiations are not successful Koeman has no plans to look for alternatives.
The Dutchman says he won't waste cash to satisfy a desire for new players unless he can lure the right players.
“We know the players that we want and it’s up to the board to make the deal,” said Koeman.
“If we don’t get that positive call from the board we focus on what my job is. If we don’t, we don’t sign other players because that is not what I want.”
The purchase of winger Lookman is an investment in the future, although if the teenager impresses he is likely to feature sooner rather than later.
“He is a good young talented player and we don’t have a player of his age and position in our Academy,” said Koeman.
“He can reach a high level if he improves. He is a player for the future. We will see how long it takes when he gets a chance but he is a good signing. He is 19 and we expect a lot from the boy.”
Everton’s major shareholder Farhad Moshiri told shareholders he wanted the club to be considered special for its achievements on the pitch rather than its history, warning of the dangers of becoming ‘a museum’.
“I agree with that comment,” said Koeman.
“It is one thing to tell everyone what we want and it is more difficult to show it.
“I signed a contract with Everton for the project. We know we need time to change.”
0 comments: