Everton agree fee for Mirallas

, 17 August, 104comments  |  Jump to most recent
Belgian set for medical 'in the next 48 hours'
Everton appear to have won the race to sign Kevin Mirallas with Sky Sports reporting that the Club have agreed a £6m fee — other sources say £5.3m rising to £6.5m — with Olympiakos for the 24 year-old.

The transfer will be completed pending a medical in the next 48 hours.

Earlier in the day, Greek media sources were reporting that Olympiakos would be putting an end to the speculation regarding Mirallas' future by announcing a deal with Everton.

Should the formalities be concluded on the deal, the transfer would represent a victory for the Blues over a competing bid from Arsenal.

Arsene Wenger is seeking a replacement for Robin van Persie — who, coincidentally, will make his Manchester United debut at Goodison Park on Monday night — but Mirallas was mindful that regular first-team football was by no means guaranteed at the Emirates Stadium and looks to have ultimately plumped for Goodison.

Quotes or other material sourced from Sky Sports



Reader Comments (104)

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Tom Dodds
2 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:33:10
Yesss ! ....but please NO Adam !
Pat Finegan
3 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:33:11
Great signing. Young player who should have an immediate impact
Mike Hughes
4 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:36:59
Great news but let's remain calm and keep some perspective.
WE'RE GONNA WIN THE LEAGUE!!!

Brent Stephens
5 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:37:43
If it really comes to fruition, then in the last 8 months we've signed:
Jela
Gibson
Naismith
Piennar
Mirallas
young lad from Ireland

Can't be bad. Some positives from the usual negative guys on this site?!

Guy Hastings
6 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:39:38
Pity he hasn't made it into my fantasy league side.
Kris Boner
7 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:39:24
Thats a good start... No chance of seeing him dancing down the wing against the mancs though.

Would like to know what has come of the M'baye Niang trial as well... You can't be coveted by teams like Arsenal and AC Milan and not be able to convince Moyes on a trial...

Tony Twist
8 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:39:55
The clubs might have agreed but has the player? Great deal if it has been done, get him in and registered to play Monday.
Drew O'Neall
9 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:39:39
Arsenal can agree a fee too now they know what it is, especially if the player wants to go there.
Brent Stephens
10 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:40:53
Kris, I guess we'll find out soon re Niang. Business negotiations don't usually take place in the open. I assume EFC are quietly active on this one as well.
Kane Dennison
11 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:38:14
We have now put Barkley on loan so I think the Charlie Adam rumour may be right therefore making making Moyes two more signings Mirallas and Adam sorted.... I personally depise him and hope not
Matt Traynor
12 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:44:45
Tony #839, deadline for registration for this weekends fixtures was noon today, so he'll be on the pitch Monday, but only to wave to the crowd.
Kevin Tully
13 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:39:09
Got to be honest and admit I don't know anything about this player, but it seems Arsenal were seriously chasing him, so that has to be a good sign in my eyes.

We really need to replace the goal threat from midfield that Cahill provided for many a season, and a top scorer in any league must know where the back of the net is.

Things are looking a lot brighter than recent seasons, I am feeling optimistic we can push on this year, if we don't lose anyone before the end of the month !

Gareth Ashman
14 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:45:22
Dear Dave'll Fix It......please make it happen. The lad looks quality. Feast your eyes....he has the footwork of a Jedi Knight.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NmMJI2MDY4&feature=player_embedded

Brent Stephens
15 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:47:51
Gareth,

I agree, I agree, I agree, I agree!! Gremlins?

Drew O'Neall
16 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:50:29
Yeah, been salivating over this.. Just the type of player we have been missing for years but am also dubious of the best bits montage.. Could be an Alliadiere or Alexanderson etc
Ray Roche
17 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:53:21
Unfortunately i've now got a mental picture of Gareth Ashman watching Youtube with a box of Kleenex.....
James Morgan
18 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:51:22
Drew, I really don't think Arsenal need him.
They've got Walcott, Chamberlain, Gervinho, Carzola and Podolski.
If anything I think they will prioritise an out and out striker to replace RvP and a centre mid for the outbound Song.
Fingers crossed!
Aidy Dews
19 Posted 17/08/2012 at 22:53:44
Good signing if everything goes well but I just wish this would've all been sorted out before 12:30 today so he could be involved on Monday.

Lot of talk on twitter (yeah, I know!) that Niang could be our next signing, impressed everyone at Everton and he was impressed with us, and some kid on there as well has posted a pic of him, is sis and Niang and he says he asked him if he was signing for Everton and some bloke that was with Niang who he presumed was his agent said 'yes'.

Could all be bollocks, probably is, but I think we have got an interest in Niang so we'll see what happens?!

Matt Traynor
20 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:04:13
Apparently M'Baye Niang's trial is all wrapped up too, and he impressed. I need a lie down...
Ben Walnick
21 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:06:03
His fans have a twitter account and they said he chose Everton over Arsenal because he felt he would get more time on the pitch.
Phil Sammon
22 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:14:39
Where have you heard that, Matt?
Dan Owens
23 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:15:26
Does Toffeeweb have a private league on Fantasy Premier League? If yes can someone send the link/code? Although I bet we all have Jelavic in. Shame this lad hasn't signed in time.
Frank Knight
24 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:14:36
Fair comments Drew, anyone else heard about Vellios to Sheffield Wednesday pending this going through?
Gaute Lie
25 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:06:44
Skillfull and pacey player. Maybe he'll be the wing opposite side of Pienaar?

He looks like a winger to me, does anyone here know if he's a pure striker or a winger?

Can't see Moyes playing two striker, so I guess Mirallas is meant for the wing.

Anyone really know?

Richard Heppelstone
26 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:13:13
This would be a great signing if it happens. It sounds pretty nailed on by all accounts. I think he will give the team perfect balance. Best 11 would be:-

Tim
Hibbo Jags Johnny Bainsey
Felli
Mirallas Ossie Peanuts
Naismith
Jelavic

Phil Sammon
27 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:18:26
He's a bit of a lightweight Ronaldo. I reckon he's a winger, but just like Ronaldo/Nani he can do a job up front.

I have no doubt that Moyes will have him in the gym with Victor and Syl. He could use a bit more bulk.

Aidy Dews
28 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:21:33
Pic of Dominic King in San Carlo with his sis and Niang.

https://twitter.com/domkelly9/status/236583176330440704/photo/1

Paul Dewhurst
29 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:22:21
Dan - 860 - No point having Jelavic if you have not got baines and pienaar in your fantasy team
Tom Bowers
30 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:18:17
Good news we hope! Previous striker signings have disappointed such as Vellios and Stracqualursi although to be fair neither were given prolonged outings. Having said that, they both were lacking something but Vellios may still come through as a useful sub.

Hopefully now we will see more offensive prowess from this squad with Naismith teaming up with Fellaini, Gibson, and Pienaar to form a solid midfield.
Clive Lewis
31 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:16:30
this guy looks more impressive than ronaldo, in fact I would say forget about drenthe this guy looks the real deal. Did kenwright win the lottery ?, I am still scared that we are going to lose someone, Baines maybe.
Harry Wallace
32 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:12:01
I'll get excited, basically have a little wiggle in the living room, when he signs on Monday. Until then... Mirallas who?
Harry Wallace
33 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:28:29
Yeah Matt is right. After his trial, he talked to fans and assured them he is joining.
James Flynn
34 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:19:51
Well, I wish Green etal out. But who knows. Since the land deal they invested in the team in the first place is dead, maybe it's finally occured that there's also profit in the club moving up the Table.

Been a nice last 8 months anyway.

COYB

P.S. Credit to Moyes. Last year of his contract, all those not-so-subtle digs at ownership in roster matters (Knife to a gun fight, etc). Well done.

Ian Bennett
35 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:30:25
The clips make him look like a Ronaldo-style winger. He looks tall, with pace and a trick. Looks big enough to handle the physical side. "Goes down easily".....
Matt Traynor
36 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:31:34
Phil #859, couple of Twatter sources. It's a job working out from people's timelines who is full of it, and who seems to be on the money. I've found a couple who seem to be on the ball, gone against a couple of the BBC journo forecasts, and seem to be getting them right.

Anyway, we knew he was on trial, apparently Sylvain tweeted Tim C (since removed) that he was impressive, but only seen him in 1 session. Now the story is talks over the weekend - don't know whether that's with the club, the player/agent or both.

Mark Riding
37 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:51:40
Barkley going out on loan.. normal service resumed..

Hope the new signings happen though.. introduced to crowd on Monday would be nice.

Phil Sammon
38 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:55:19
How is that a bad thing, Mark? If we can recall him and he gets competitive games then it can only be good for Everton.
Si Cooper
39 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:33:22
Not sure why you would need to use not-so-subtle digs when the manager and the chairman are so matey, unless the idea is to by-pass BK and get your message straight to the money-men?

Still, things definitely looking good at the moment. If the quoted £6 million is correct, is it likely that the remainder of the Rodders fee will be splurged on Niang? How odd would it be to bring him over for a three day trial and then not seriously pursue him if he has impressed, simply because we signed someone else first?

And then there is the lad from Bohemians. Is it feasible we could get in everyone we are interested in (fending off interest from other clubs) by structuring payments, or is there possibly a bit more in the pot than we suspect?

Terry Riley
40 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:57:18
The clubs might have agreed but has the player? Great deal if it has been done, get him in and registered to play Monday
quote Tony Twist
Kase Chow
41 Posted 17/08/2012 at 23:59:57
Clive#869

'looks more impressive than Ronaldo...'

Er,are you sure?!?!?!

Mark Riding
42 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:03:17
Phil, Osman apart, I cant think of a sucessfull player we have loaned out ? Duffy didnt hardly play in his loan. If we sign someone else, just to make up the squad numbers and they don't come off, it will turn into a negative in my opinion.
If its just the 3 months, then fine I suppose, but a full season on loan to a Sheffied side who have just come up may be tough. The Championship is not the cakewalk some seem to think it is. May well be the making of the lad,.
Phil Sammon
43 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:14:46
Well we don't know the ins and outs of any deal yet. Be it a Sheffield club or someone else, I'd much rather he gets competitive football.

To be honest, I'd like to see him coming on for us with 20 mins to go. I think 90 mins elsewhere may be more beneficial to his development.

Si Cooper
44 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:05:36
What's the story with Barkley on loan?

Maybe a spell on loan will be the making of him, but I had hoped to keep him in the fold and use him off the bench to further his development.

Same with Vellios, though I am less sure of his ability.

Still concerned about squad numbers, partly because it would be nice for the U21s to be as strong as possible so they have a good season as well.

James Flynn
45 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:02:46
Si - Other than a few in here, who says Moyes and Kenwright are "matey". Moyes is an employee in a mid-management position in an international multi-million business. I say every negative statement out of Moyes the 1st half last season was directed right at ownership. Those statements weren't for you and me.

Anyhow, it's worked over these last 7-8 months.

Mark Riding
46 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:25:52
Sorry lads, thought this was already well known..

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2189972/Everton-plan-loan-Ross-Barkley.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Ray Griffin
47 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:07:49
Sounds like a player we've needed for quite a while, a pacey winger/forward in the style of Landon Donovan. Only question is will moyes play him enough?

On another issue, we really, really need a good right full back if we're going to compete this term. Bainsey & Pienaar are fantastic on the left, Hibbo & Osman on the right don't cut it at this level and would be more at home in the Championship.

Great to see Hibbo score the other night but now is the time to let him go, we need to sign a quality defender and using Pip isn't the answer - spend some money on a proper right full in the Gary Stevens mode

Phil Sammon
48 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:29:50
I could be the only one...but I'm happy enough with Hibbo, Pip and Coleman (in training). Now we have this other young Irishman too.

I'd be gutted if we spent the rest of the Rodwell money on a RB. We need another striker far more

Tony Twist
49 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:31:16
I think Barkley and Vellios going out on loan would be good for them. I'm not sure if last season vellios was offered a loan deal but it didn't happen for some reason. They need competitive football and if they shine then they are keepers if not then I'm not sure how Moyes will take it. A lot, I think, depends on the club and manager. Loaning to the likes of Blackpool would be a good thing as I think their manager may bring the best of these players. Not sure where Barkley is going.
Si Cooper
50 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:29:22
James - I would have said that David Moyes and Bill Kenwright have both made out that they have a superb working relationship, where the manager simply has to tell the chairman what is required and the chairman then does what he can to make it happen. Every piece written about them in the press stresses this as well.

I did concede that the messages may have been intended for other board members, but that unfortunately suggests that BK doesn't have direct influence on them, which is worrying.

Andy Crooks
51 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:32:37
James ,your post # 872 is insightful. Your post at 884 is incomprehensible. Moyes is no mid management employee. I think, as you suggest, that he has been subtle and clever but he has absolutely no need to be. He has Kenwright and this appalling board by the balls. Without Moyes Kenwright would be gone, Vice versa too.
Julian Batti
52 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:11:32
So, behind Jelavic we will have Naismith, Pienaar, and Mirallas. We are going to be more than a handful this season.

I am somewhat intrigued though. This is not Everton as I know them under Moyes. Four players in the starting line-up with lots of offensive prowess, but unlikely to make any significant contributions of a defensive nature. Does not this fly in the face of Moyes's defensive mindset?

Sorry, I am confused. What is going on? I do not understand the plot of this story. Look at this guy, Mirellas. He could have played for Barcelona. How the hell did we manage to sign him? He must be out of his mind.

Anyway, I am not going to believe this fairytale until I see this guy in the royal blue jersey. I know youtube can be deceptive, but behold this comedy worthy of a Moliere: the RedShite paid £45 (?) million for this the Barcode bum, whereas we got this genius for a mere £6M? The lad is world class and he is coming to Everton. Someone pinch me; am I dreaming?
James Martin
53 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:39:42
I doubt we'll be loaning Vellios or Barkley out unless others come in first. If Jelavic gets injured, we'd only have Anichebe who could play the lone striker role if Vellios isn't here. Likewise in midfield, with Cahill and Rodwell going, we are not blessed with a huge abundance of players, Barkley could well get a few games out wide or behind the striker.

As for Mirallas, it will be interesting to see how Moyes uses him. Before this signing, I half expected Fellaini to play behind Jelavic and Naismith and Pienaar to be on the flanks. Perhaps now he'll have Mirallas, Naismith and Pienaar as an attacking trident behind Jelavic. Perhaps Pienaar may even be moved infield alongside Gibson. Either way it is certainly shaping up to be a much more attacking team than the one that started last year:

Gibson Osman
Naismith Fellaini Pienaar
Jelavic

Compared to:

Heitinga Osman

Rodwell Cahill Barkley

Beckford

We may not win against Man Utd but surely another slow start can't be on the cards with the quality we have in all areas of the park now?

Si Cooper
54 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:48:29
Mark (#885) - all there in black and white, as they say, but had completely passed me by.

When did the story break / when did DM give those quotes? Only asking as I haven't seen anything on TW or Bluekipper. Bluekipper have something about Vellios going to Sheffield Wednesday so does that mean they are both headed there?

Nick Casey
55 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:57:23
Seamus Coleman was fairly successful at Blackpool as was the mentioned Leon Osman.

Great signing his if it happens I'm praying.to.god he agrees terms and signs!

Si Cooper
56 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:54:12
James (#893) - according to the link provided by Mark Riding - which appears to be direct quotes from DM - the loan(s) will only be put in place once the squad has been added to and so unlikely to be before the end of the transfer window.

Swap Ossie and Felli around and I would be happy with that team on Monday. Presume Naismith will struggle to last the whole 90 though.

Phil Sammon
57 Posted 18/08/2012 at 01:01:37
Vellios has categorically denied that he is going on loan.

Moyes has only spoke of Barkley. He said a loan may be beneficial. It sounds as though it will only be in September though - when we know who we have to work with.

Chris Verghoden
58 Posted 18/08/2012 at 01:06:07
James @ 884..how many other chairman/manager combos have appeared on the Goals on Sunday sofa for mutual love in? Why people persist in this fallacy that Moyes is trying to undermine the system from within is beyond me.

Regardless of that, for once we seem to be going about our transfer business with a degree of professionalism for once..still, it's early days yet!!!

James Flynn
59 Posted 18/08/2012 at 00:44:51
Andy - Agree Moyes has them between their legs and a soft place. But he's like every manager of every club in every league in any professional sport. Mid-management. I wasn't denigrating Moyes.

I'm one who rates him; an -ite or -phile (I prefer reality-challenged Moyesist). It's the "matey" thing Si mentioned and he's not the first. They're not mates and I don't get why some think they are. Kenright is a major stock-holder in a big business. Moyes works for him.

Si Cooper
60 Posted 18/08/2012 at 01:25:14
I say poh-tay-toe, you say poh-tar-toe.

I say 'matey', you say standard executive / middle management professional relationship?

Eric Myles
61 Posted 18/08/2012 at 02:02:32
Dan #860 code is 226124-173344
Keith Glazzard
62 Posted 18/08/2012 at 02:16:57
If we do get the Belgian lad, and he's anything like as good as Fellaini is, it'll be a great day for us.

So far, and its only so far, there has been no hint of Fellaini or Baines being lost to us. I'd love this to be the case with Heitinga too, but, and I don't know why, I don't feel so confident about that.

But maybe the sale of Jack has made many things possible on its own. Back in Fallowfield, I've yet to talk to the City insiders I know, but the faithful can only say 'in Mancini we trust' as they know sod all about Rodwell anyway.

Steve Smith
64 Posted 18/08/2012 at 03:29:07
Deal was done (in principle) last week from what my ITK told me tonight, but he does work for the dark side so it could be shite..... like them!
James Flynn
65 Posted 18/08/2012 at 03:20:08
Chris (900) – "How many other chairman-manager combos have appeared on the Goals on Sunday sofa for mutual love-in?"

How many of his musical openings has Kenwright been seen smiling his ass off with some star or another. They're friends? Not if he's paying his or her wages. Might hate each other but smile away since it's in both their interest to do so.

I'll accept Kenwright respects Moyes. But the manager in a "Win or you're nothing" business who has rich owners who won't invest a little towards that winning? I'd guess there's no love lost from the Moyes end. He presents a united front in public (professionally correct behavior), but it would surprise me Kenwright is a Moyes kind of guy away from work.

James Flynn
66 Posted 18/08/2012 at 03:38:54
James (893) - Good stuff. How great to be reading about attacking options in a positive sense.

"ManU may not win against us and surely another slow start can't be on the cards with the quality we have in all areas of the park now".

I like the way you think, brother James. Well said.

James Flynn
67 Posted 18/08/2012 at 04:12:00
So with Mirallas in, where does that leave Victor? Anichebe sold, no? He'd have to be better than what some of the relegation-worry sides have on the roster now. 2 mil? 3?
Peter Laverty
68 Posted 18/08/2012 at 06:11:49
Call me a pessimist but I still wont believe it or celebrate until I see him in a blue shirt doing a few mad skills for the cameras on the Goodison pitch. Two words for you.... Mohamed Sissoko.
Tom Dodds
69 Posted 18/08/2012 at 07:07:33
Let's hope while all this activity is taking place, they remember Gos.... I mean McAleny's contract...
Christopher Timmins
70 Posted 18/08/2012 at 07:51:31
Hopefully, the deal will be finalised today, Moyes, in whom we trust, will then bring in one more signing and produce the usual inspired loan deal by the end of the month. The average of the likely starting 11 is heading south and about time.
Tony Cheek
71 Posted 18/08/2012 at 07:49:49
Must say it's been very positive pre-season business, with Pienaar. Naismith and now Mirallas coming in and Moyes still looking for players (Niang?). I think about 90% of us were expecting to lose Baines or Fellaini before the first game, so all hunky dory and and an exciting squad to start the season with.

Was also looking forward to seeing Barkley given some games so we could see what all the hype was about, but now see Moyes wants to loan him out to a Championship club... oh well, hes not the new Rooney after all. Maybe Junior will be this seasons surprise youngster. If Moyes dare use him.

United at home is going to be a real test, especially with a rather"dodgy" pre season (IMO) behind us, and don't expect to see the new faces too early, except Pienaar who knows Moyes "track back" rules.


Anyway best of luck to Everyone, would be nice to play some good football before christmas this season!
COYB!
Amanda Huddleston
72 Posted 18/08/2012 at 08:51:13
Interesting summary re our very own King Kevvy

http://theexecutionersbong.wordpress.com/2012/08/16/toffee-scout-report-deconstructing-kevin-mirallas/

Seems great addition for the price

Kieran Fitzgerald
73 Posted 18/08/2012 at 08:49:37
Tony Twist, I like the idea of Barkley going to Blackpool. The team plays attacking football. Very cavalier but if we want Barkley to develop as an attacking midfielder Blackpool would be a good place to go. On the other hand, a winning team that would push for promotion would do better in terms of his overall game.
Phil Walling
74 Posted 18/08/2012 at 09:17:45
I`ve searched in vain to find clips of him tracking back.This lad will need a couple of months `to learn the Everton way`!
James Newcombe
75 Posted 18/08/2012 at 09:30:12
This is excellent news, I really hope we also sign Niang, and that there's no other major departures this window.
Jimmy Salt
76 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:16:23
Hmmmmm... He does look the part — I just can't see where he will fit into our back 9?
Nathan Jones
77 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:30:30
Ok, imagine, that coleman becomes the right back we all hoped he could be:

Coleman Jags Jonny Baines

Fellaini Gibbo

Mirallas Naysmith Pienar

Jelly

I would be happy with that 11 against any team in the prem, the only problem is there is not enough cover under this, the special one when he was at chelsea said that he needed 22 first choice players, I think we have about 15.

Dave White
78 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:39:39
Well it's nice to have a wave of optimism washing over this normally pessimistic site!

As we know we have to sell to buy and I think we've cashed in on the most sensible high value asset to sell, I have a tenner with my mate Rodders will be back at Goodison, either on loan, or for £4m in, two years time.

I just hope there isn't a massive knee jerk reaction if things don't go to plan on Monday as I believe it will be our toughest home fixture of the season, on the other hand if we do get a result it's going to send major shockwaves through the prem. COYB!!!!

Matt Butlin
79 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:56:19
Good point Dave White, these near utopian conditions could all change come Monday night. If we do get our arses handed to us by the Mancs let's keep a level head...
John Pickles
80 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:43:30
We've still got the dreaded medical yet, this is Everton remember, our medical testers could find something wrong with Usain Bolt........... don't celebrate until he's photo'd holding the sacred shirt!
Glen Anderson
81 Posted 18/08/2012 at 10:51:15
Nathan Jones, you have it spot on there. The only weak links if we get Mirallas will be lack of squad depth and right-back position.

I feel for Coleman / Neville / Hibbo if that's the case as they will likely feel the full brunt of Toffeewebber chagrin.

Joe Clitherow
82 Posted 18/08/2012 at 11:24:01
Nathan Jones you've been gone too long...... :-)

I don't believe Coleman can defend to save his life and will never be a viable right back

Brent Stephens
83 Posted 18/08/2012 at 11:21:10
John Pickles #977 says: "this is Everton remember, our medical testers could find something wrong with Usain Bolt".

John, please tell me you're just joking re the medical staff. Otherwise I assume you've got some credentials and some insights into previous potential signings that they don't have. Tell me you're joking, mate!

Dick Brody
84 Posted 18/08/2012 at 13:07:30
Sounds like a useful player. The sort of player David Moyes should be signing. It was scary stuff being linked to Emile Heskey and Michael Owen.
Kevin Day
85 Posted 18/08/2012 at 13:26:18
I know he won't be playing on monday, but, whoever will be playing in his role against Man U will put in a shift knowing they have to stake a claim, competion for places is very healthy.
Chris James
86 Posted 18/08/2012 at 13:02:29
If this comes off I'd expect to see one or two apologies and a fair bit of humble pie consumed on this site.

Considering the financial constraints it's hard to see how we could have had a better transfer window so far. We've clearly been busy (with links to a host of exciting prospects), have landed our prime target (Pienaar) and what would appear to be 2 quality attacking reinforcements (Naismith and Mirallas) plus another young prospect at the back (Mclaughlin).

Aside from some youth players and loanees who simply didn't make the grade, the players we've let go have been either surplus to requirements (Yobo), first team fringe (Rodwell) or in decline (sad as it makes me to say it, Cahill) and generally we've brought down the wage bill and (I imagine) paid off a little debt too.

When you also consider the signings made in January (in Jelavic and Gibson), the youth players coming through (Junior, Barkley, Garbutt, Duffy and McAlney lining up behind Gueye, Vellios, Anichebe and Coleman) and the fact that we have almost 2 more weeks yet for further acquisitions and Moyes saying he wants 'at least 2 more' I think it's fair to say the club are on track for their best transfer window for some time.

Chris James
87 Posted 18/08/2012 at 13:02:29
If this comes off I'd expect to see one or two apologies and a fair bit of humble pie consumed on this site.

Considering the financial constraints it's hard to see how we could have had a better transfer window so far. We've clearly been busy (with links to a host of exciting prospects), have landed our prime target (Pienaar) and what would appear to be 2 quality attacking reinforcements (Naismith and Mirallas) plus another young prospect at the back (Mclaughlin).

Aside from some youth players and loanees who simply didn't make the grade, the players we've let go have been either surplus to requirements (Yobo), first team fringe (Rodwell) or in decline (sad as it makes me to say it, Cahill) and generally we've brought down the wage bill and (I imagine) paid off a little debt too.

When you also consider the signings made in January (in Jelavic and Gibson), the youth players coming through (Junior, Barkley, Garbutt, Duffy and McAlney lining up behind Gueye, Vellios, Anichebe and Coleman) and the fact that we have almost 2 more weeks yet for further acquisitions and Moyes saying he wants 'at least 2 more' I think it's fair to say the club are on track for their best transfer window for some time.

Paul Ferry
88 Posted 18/08/2012 at 14:40:55
Fingers crossed the canny Belgian isn't thinking:

"Well, I got me a freebie ticket for the Manure game, nice seat, right by gobshite Kenwright [he's a quick learner this one], and I may as well see how the game goes against Manure and how Everton play and then I'll make me mind up, like..."
Ernie Baywood
89 Posted 18/08/2012 at 14:43:17
Yes good so far, better if we get Mirallas... but there's still time for it to go wrong and nothing beforehand matters if Utd sign Baines (new bid rumoured - although they could just be playing games with us ahead of Monday).
Jackie Barry
90 Posted 18/08/2012 at 14:41:21
Chris, whatever! Why should anyone apologise when this is exactly what the people who run the club should be doing. As for the team itself well it's all very well selling players but when you already had a threadbare squad you need to replace them with some urgency and even add to what you already have. As for it being the best transfer window for some time we will have to wait and see because wont that be judged by results on the pitch?
Peter Askins
91 Posted 18/08/2012 at 14:59:46
Well, I just hope I'm not stuck in a lift with you, Jackie!

We are where we are, the tenth best supported team in the division, and roughly in the same position when it comes to the player wage bill. So, to finish anywhere around sixth would be deemed a success, as I believe we will, and certainly odds-against. (We're a best-priced 4/1 to finish in the top six, if anybody fancies a flutter!)

Mirallas would be a very exciting signing, and certainly an improvement on anything we currently have on the right-hand side, assuming he plays there. Optimism is the order of the day with this transfer window, and anybody who can't share the feeling, especially before a ball is kicked, really is a pessimist!

Jackie Barry
92 Posted 18/08/2012 at 15:14:17
Sorry Peter to have offended you. My goodness the excuses get more and more lame as the years go by. While we might be the tenth best supported teams in the division we are also one of the most successful in English football. I am excited about the new season I always am but lets not let it detract from the fact that the way this club has been run has at times been deplorable. So please don't go telling me that optimism is called for or that we should apologise for something that should norm for this club.
Peter Askins
93 Posted 18/08/2012 at 15:31:17
I'm not offended Jackie, I just find it sad that you sound so miserable and pessimistic, given that we're having the best summer that most Evertonians could hope for.

Most of us last May would have been happy to keep the team together which finished the season so well, and to add Pienaar would be the cherry on the cake. But to get some big earners off the books, cut the dead wood, and bring in established internationals, well that would be unthinkable, wouldn't it ? Well, it's happening, so kudos to Moyes and BK, although in no way am I excusing the way this club has been run for the last twenty years.

History is all well and good, and we all enjoy a good sing-song about it, but in today's reality, I'm afraid that's about as relevant as powdered eggs and the British colonies !

Brent Stephens
94 Posted 18/08/2012 at 15:43:23
Peter #041 - I do miss powdered eggs (though not the colonies) but I support what you say. Let's criticise when it's warranted but be prepared to acknowledge the positives when we see them.
Jackie - but I would share a lift with you.
Brian Cleveland
95 Posted 18/08/2012 at 14:35:18
This is what I got from a Greek friend of mine about Mirallas:

"You are getting a very good player! He was the best player in Olympiakos the past two years! We are really sad he is leaving the club! He is fast and he has great technique and I don't think he will have a problem adjusting in Premier League!"

It's not a guarantee, but nice to hear!

Ben Wellings
98 Posted 18/08/2012 at 19:47:52
Yes, good, but of course we can scratch off this whole season anyway with that god awful Moyes in charge! No?.... Where is that Kenrick guy whenever something positive is being reported?
Nathan Jones
99 Posted 18/08/2012 at 20:08:02
John I hear what you say about Coleman not being a great defender, which is why I used the magic IF. That said I saw Jim play for blackpool in the championship and he looked decent. I also remember when baines started playing left back for us we conceded quite a few goals from that side until moyes sorted him out. So, magic IF time again , if moyes could do the same job there ..... But if push comes to shove I actually think hibbo is a good right back , he just not a wing back. He is what he is, a right back who has played for one of the Better teams in the prem for 10 years. But the squad depth is shocking .
Ian Smitham
100 Posted 18/08/2012 at 21:36:48
Brent #988 When I read the submission of John #977 I really could not believe that a real Toffeeweb contributor could be so stupid, it is really either a wind up or a prospective candidate for the worst contribution to this site this year or even ever.

Glad that you spotted it and I hope that a readable thread has not been spoilt.

Tony Dove
101 Posted 18/08/2012 at 21:31:39
What is clear from all the posts is that nobody, including DM probably, has actually seen this Mirallas play [leaving aside Youtube footage-think Bily]. Might be good; could be shit. £6 million is big money for us so bank manager's fingers will be firmly crossed.
Ian Bennett
102 Posted 18/08/2012 at 21:53:11
I am pretty sure Moyes was at the Dutch game, and I would expect he watched him play England.

This guarantees nothing, but I would have expected he is well scouted. We were linked with another player at Olympiacos, but I suspect this has been the main target. Belgium seem to have a good batch at the moment.

Mark Tanton
103 Posted 18/08/2012 at 23:38:22
Tony we all know Moyes, whatever his faults, is not a manager who gambles on a player he hasn't seen. I bet he even took stool samples from Drenthe before bringing him in. Moyes will be very well aquainted with Mirallas, and have made extensive enquiries about his attitude and personality.
Andy Crooks
104 Posted 19/08/2012 at 00:49:15
Spot on Mark. Moyes ,like all managers, has made mistakes in his transfers but I reckon he is as good as any. I expect that he spends Everton's money as if it was white fivers coming from the depths of his mattress.
Si Cooper
105 Posted 19/08/2012 at 00:45:36
Must have got Gillian McKeith to analyse Drenthe's stool samples. Typical 'jobs for the jocks'!

Poor Jackie Barry. Point out reality and get berated for being a 'pessimist'. Such are the perils of Toffeeweb (sigh).

Peter Askins - please don't use 'most' unless you can back it up. A lot of people I know were concerned about what would happen over the summer, given that we obviously needed to have something of a clear-out, the squad is still tiny, our youngsters are as yet still largely unproven, and we were told we would need to sell to buy.

That said, every thing has gone well so far in terms of transfers / squad improvements (long may it it continue) and we should ALL be more optimistic than we were a few short weeks ago.

(The first two paragraphs are 'tongue in cheek' in case anyone is unsure.)

Mathew McKay
106 Posted 19/08/2012 at 13:35:40
It's a done deal, according to Sky.

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11671/8003652/Everton-seal-Mirallas-deal

Kris Boner
107 Posted 19/08/2012 at 13:37:53
OS confirmed
Paul Momber
108 Posted 19/08/2012 at 13:44:43
Sweet, just have to wait and see if he really is any good now. YouTube is irrelevant and look how good Bily looked on there but fingers crossed Moyes has learnt from that one.

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