Reports: Everton 'closing in' on Delph signing

However, would he not block the progress of the likes of Joe Williams, who could well do a job as a 4th choice centre mid?

If Gana is off then I’d much rather have him in our squad than the cowardly Schneiderlin or the sadly injury-prone McCarthy. I know Delph has had his own injury problems, but I think he’s still got 3 or 4 years at the top; £10 million would be good business.

Unlike some, I have absolutely zero confidence that James McCarthy would come close to filling it. He’s hardly played any competitive games in the last 4 years and was not that good to begin with. (His one ok season was 5 years ago!) I expect/hope McCarthys off the wage bill come 31 August. If not he’ll leave on a free in 12 months having collected another £2.5m in wages turning up to training.

Delph, if cheap (including wages) may not be a bad signing. Would rather someone better but depends on who’s available and how much they cost I guess. Still not a priority position (yet).

Hopefully MB will have his traps and stratedgy in place to get his type of players in this next 3 weeks, the sooner the better.

I am one of only a few who thinks he would come in and do a job for Everton, plenty worse players out there.

Again dependent of if Gaye is staying, or moving on.

Everton don't need him when we have Tom Davies.

Hopefully if we can get it right in the transfer market, (Malcom, Zouma and Kean) we can persuade him to continue doing what he does best for us and help build an exciting team!

People have become almost brainwashed now about resale values and every player that comes through the ranks at the age of 18 is gonna be amazing.

I remember in the summer of 2015 having a discussion with one fan who said Chris Long (he scored a goal in a preseason friendly that summer) simply had to start the 2015/-16 campaign as he was better than Lukaku and Harry Kane put together, well, the rest is history isn't it?

I think it's since we brought through Wayne Rooney, we are still pinning distant hopes that we are going to see another like him come through and be a superstar, the reality is Rooney was a freak of nature at 16 and was clear straight away that he was a Premier League player.

We've had all the false promises of Jeffers, Vaughan, Anichebe, Branch, Cadamarteri, Rodwell, Barkley (who still hasn't improved as a player since his first season at Everton).

The most reliable young lads we've brought through were probably Tony Hobert and Leon Osman.

Personally I don't care about the age of players or give a monkeys about resale values, I'm interested in their values to Everton and I look at what the likes of Sylvain Distin, Gareth Barry, Richard Gough, Alan Stubbs, Lee Carsley, Davie Weir, Kevin Campbell, Dave Watson, Neville Southall did for us and I'm quite ok with signing players at a certain age if they are good enough.

29 is not old. Klaassen was young... that worked out well!

It's all very well not giving a crap about resale values but if we then need a new striker but struggle to find the funds because no-one wants to buy our ageing squad everyone is up in arms!

7 or so years ago we were in a similar spot to Spurs but they have outstripped us by picking up young talent with potential, selling a few of them off for massive profit using the money to re-invest wisely and have now built an excellent team based on those players and a good coach coach.

None of this is to say that EVERY player has to be a spring chicken. Of course there needs to be a balance. Players like Gareth Barry prove more than their worth. But considerations of wages and resale value have to be given their place for any fan able to see the bigger picture. Like it or not Everton the football club will only do well if the business runs smoothly. Money is a limited resource so we have to make the best use of it we can.

As for Delph, as with most transfers, it depends on the deal specifics. If we got him for a nominal value on reasonable wages (say £60-75k) then I could definitely see the sense in that. His injury history worries me but he is a good player when fit and by all accounts a really excellent presence and voice in the dressing room. If we are to pay them £16M and give him £100k per week then I think there are better ways to spend that money.

We bought older players like Alcaraz and Kone that were poor, Bolasie was 27 hardly old, but yes overpriced and on too much of a high wage that’s not the players fault but the club.

We must start signing players that are the finished article otherwise every single year is going to be yet another season in that dreaded word “transition”.

We can’t keep waiting for 21 year olds to come good in four years time, with the risk that they may not in all likelihood become much better.

We need a blend of player, you can’t have a whole starting eleven with no characters and a bunch of players under 25 starting with no real winners experience.

That’s why players like Digne, Gana and Sigurdsson are absolutely crucial to this team, without those three players in there we’d struggle massively let’s be honest.

I’m all for signing top quality young players but too many “supposed to be’s“ or “potentially greats” then it’s just looking at more transition of mediocre 8th place finishes.

His signing would allow us to move on several expensive fringe players, because he can cover a number if positions (Schneirderlin, Martina, McCarthy, Mirallas, Lookman, Walcott.. to name a few) and/or put the likes of Davies out on loan.

For those proposing we just get McCarthy ‘really fit’, I don’t see that being an option available to us.

A lot depends on the deal in question but paying big bucks for players aged or near their 30s usually means the club taking a financial hit they can barely afford. If Delph comes for a few million and is happy to get 65k per week then that makes sense enough.

I'd keep Schneiderlin a better player all round than Delph. Plus he's already in our squad.

We need goals in the team not another journeyman utility player.

Delph is experienced and well coached, knows the game, good passer of the ball and at 29, despite some peoples outdated obsession, still has plenty of football left in him.

If Gueye does got to PSG, and Delph (as reported) wants to leave City to get a game, then it makes sense in my view. Guardiola rates him very highly, and I'll take his opinion over anyone on here - including myself!

There has to be better alternatives out there. Tanguy Ndombele, who Spurs have just signed, is a good buy, he will strengthen them and make them much tougher to beat.

I hope we are in the market for a midfielder of this nature, maybe one who is on the up who Mr Brands has had scouted.

I bet Sam Hoare can name one or two interesting alternatives to Delph. How is Sangare progressing?

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In fairness, how do you know there hasn't been any interest in Schneiderlin? some clubs operate without sharing their plans with the newspapers. Weren't West Ham interested in him during Moyes tenure as their caretaker manager?! I seem to remember someone at Everton refuting the interest stating that Schneiderlin wouldn't be going anywhere.

I like Morgan attitude aside. He's a player that keeps play going and paradoxically often has a better game when he doesn't stand out. He's also a decent passer of the ball and I don't see why Delph would be a step up from him. It would be a move side ways. Delph is the wrong age and will be on big wages. I think you'd agree there's not much difference between them even if you think Delph is better of the two, Andrew.

In fairness, how do you know there hasn't been any interest in Schneiderlin? some clubs operate without sharing their plans with the newspapers. Weren't West Ham interested in him during Moyes tenure as their caretaker manager?! I seem to remember someone at Everton refuting the interest stating that Schneiderlin wouldn't be going anywhere.

I like Morgan attitude aside. He's a player that keeps play going and paradoxically often has a better game when he doesn't stand out. He's also a decent passer of the ball and I don't see why Delph would be a step up from him. It would be a move side ways. Delph is the wrong age and will be on big wages. I think you'd agree there's not much difference between them even if you think Delph is better of the two, Andrew.

In fairness, how do you know there hasn't been any interest in Schneiderlin? some clubs operate without sharing their plans with the newspapers. Weren't West Ham interested in him during Moyes tenure as their caretaker manager?! I seem to remember someone at Everton refuting the interest stating that Schneiderlin wouldn't be going anywhere.

I like Morgan attitude aside. He's a player that keeps play going and paradoxically often has a better game when he doesn't stand out. He's also a decent passer of the ball and I don't see why Delph would be a step up from him. It would be a move side ways. Delph is the wrong age and will be on big wages. I think you'd agree there's not much difference between them even if you think Delph is better of the two, Andrew.

In fairness, how do you know there hasn't been any interest in Schneiderlin? some clubs operate without sharing their plans with the newspapers. Weren't West Ham interested in him during Moyes tenure as their caretaker manager?! I seem to remember someone at Everton refuting the interest stating that Schneiderlin wouldn't be going anywhere.

I like Morgan attitude aside. He's a player that keeps play going and paradoxically often has a better game when he doesn't stand out. He's also a decent passer of the ball and I don't see why Delph would be a step up from him. It would be a move side ways. Delph is the wrong age and will be on big wages. I think you'd agree there's not much difference between them even if you think Delph is better of the two, Andrew.

In fairness, how do you know there hasn't been any interest in Schneiderlin? some clubs operate without sharing their plans with the newspapers. Weren't West Ham interested in him during Moyes tenure as their caretaker manager?! I seem to remember someone at Everton refuting the interest stating that Schneiderlin wouldn't be going anywhere.

I like Morgan attitude aside. He's a player that keeps play going and paradoxically often has a better game when he doesn't stand out. He's also a decent passer of the ball and I don't see why Delph would be a step up from him. It would be a move side ways. Delph is the wrong age and will be on big wages. I think you'd agree there's not much difference between them even if you think Delph is better of the two, Andrew.

If Gueye is going, no one we have fits the bill, Gomes, Schnederlin, Davies, don’t break up play well enough. I’m not sure Delph will but he’ll certainly get stuck in, though at times it won’t be pretty. Type of player capable of getting Goodison roaring as did Neville on Ronaldo.

' A fully fit Mcarthy'...10 games in three years, think I'll take a chance on Delph.

We can't move fringe players on at all. never mind us signing an overrated Delph. and someone mentioned £10 million. I know, lets get him on loan like other clubs do with our expensive fringe players

When he was at Villa, I thought he was excellent. Much less so at City but that's a false environment in some ways. As ever, it's all about the fit and what he may contribute to the whole.

I'm happy enough. Over to you, Fabian.

I think everyone buys into the vision of buying up and coming younger players, which has been successful last year in the first window of the new era... It just feels a backward step but I hope I'm wrong!

I'd expect McCarthy or Besic to go for near that.

I thought the same thing regarding Drew 30. To me Delph seems like the Walcott signing. e.g. someone who is established, pretty good, available. but not someone we need. If wages were minimal (which surely they won't be) then it would be one thing. But 100k a week seems to be like minimum wage these days so I really don't see the point in this. Just to be clear, I think he is a decent player so I am not having a go at him but I just think it's not a signing we "need" at this time.

Could be an astute "squad" signing come the close of the window or could turn out to be a case of "ffs is that it"?

£8m for a quality pro and we're turning up our noses? Mind you, I'm a big fan of Schneiderlin too. I think we're building a canny midfield: hard and subtle - that's a good combination and will be nourishing for the likes of Davies and Baningime to thrive.

I'd expect McCarthy or Besic to go for near that.

My hunch is that this is an £8m insurance policy against Gueye leaving for Paris. Delph is not in any way a replacement for Gana -- he has played little DM at City and is not exactly known for his ballwinning -- but he's an experienced bit of depth for Silva, who may not see Davies as ready for full-time starting duty.

Funny thing is that while Gana is twice the player, he's on a lower salary -- Delph £90k/week, Gana £70k/week. Who says life is fair?

Our midfield as it stands is: Gueye, Gomes, Sigurdsson, Davies and maybe Schneiderlin, but I expect him to leave, either on loan or permanently. So that leaves us with just 4. So signing an experienced and versatile player for cheap makes sense.

It is not a priority position, so best to use the bulk of our funds for that striker we so desire.

Whilst he played as a left back, mostly for Guardiola, it’s worth noting that he often tucked in alongside Fernandinho, so he often patrolled defensive midfielder regardless.

In a Gueye-less Everton, he would play deep with Gomes. He would be the one to break up the play and get Gomes on the ball. He gets forward as well as Gueye ever did, up until this season, and so can do a lot of what Gueye did, though not quite as well.

It seems to me that perhaps Gueye is off. The African nations is in the way of his transfer and once it’s over and money bags PSG stop being penny pinchers, the transfer will go through. I would see Delph as his replacement and then expect a marquee signing on the wing, ie Neres, Malcolm or Pepe.

No inside info, it’s just the only way this makes any sense.

Hopefully we’re keeping Gana and offloading at least two out of Besic, Schneiderlin and McCarthy - and this Delph deal might enable us to be all right about the limited fees that they are likely to attract.

As others have said, doesn't really fit the blueprint of a Brands signing, so I'm doubtful. If it is true, and he's coming in to replace Gueye, then I'm not massively impressed. Still, if Brands and Silva thinks he's worth a punt, so be it.

I think he'll prove to be an excellent buy and will quickly become a fan favourite and captain. He is top 6 quality and is clearly coming for the right reasons. He wants a challenge and he wants to play. He's a winner and will bring that mentality.

We all know how it works, English fringe player at 'top' is a guaranteed call-up. The moment he becomes a regular at a 'non-top' team, he'll be out of the squad.

Whether it’s a good deal ultimately will depend on what wages were paying him and if he can stay fit!

If this is happening I suspect young Joe Williams future next season will depend on whether Morgan Schneiderlin's stays or goes. Like Jonjoe Kenny, a season in the Bundesliga would probably do Joe Williams good, although I would like to see him in the Everton squad this season. Beni Baningime definitely needs a loan move but the next one is critical because he couldn't get a game for Wigan last season. He could be another Galloway or Garbutt if the next one goes wrong.

The emphasis with Silva will be on flair and pace (more than Atletico), but you need your steel.

We're getting there. We're now run by two or three calm, winning characters who are not at all sentimental but who want to see us honour our tradition, I'm convinced of it.

Delph is a part, however apparently small, of that process.

I pray Brands has something up his sleeve. Delph's as a replacement for Gueye who was our best player last season is a complete downgrade. It's Astute only in a monetary sense, but in no other way. I should imagine Delph will be replacing other players and we'll be getting someone better than Delph to replace Gueye. The only way I see Delph being in the first 11, is if no one buys Schneiderlin.

“The only way I see Delph being in the first 11, is if no one buys Schneiderlin.” What does that mean? Genuine question.

Sorry if the question embarrasses you, but what do you want fans to expect in the season to come?

and agree with others who suggest that this probably means Gana is on his way to PSG ... and if he is then good luck to him - a 100% giver who deserves the opportunity for a few trophies and a last big contract.

And all I can say is: Wow.

Sorry, but no matter how many times you post that, I doubt you're going to find anyone agreeing with you.

Delph may not be a patch on Gana, but he's way, way better than Schneids.

I agree on Delph with regards to Baines but that said maybe they’ve bought him as a midfielder and not s utility man

We need better, the sooner, too.

Gavin - Athleticism if very different from fitness; I meant that Delph is quicker, stronger, more durable and more dynamic than MS - although I concede that Delph remains a fitness concern. I think we're just on opposite sides of the coin about Delph and Schneiderlin; I look forward to seeing how the season fares for both of them.

8 Million for an England International who can play in 3 positions.

A utility player with a great engine, speed and skill. What's not to like?

Brands wants to make the squad smaller whilst saving on wages and provides us with more in-game tactical options... No brainer!

A year ago the left-back position was a major problem. Problem solved... for years!

It's not always about signing the big risky names. Sometimes you have to buy the right player for the right reasons and give the manager what he doesn't even know he needs.

Could be one of the cleverest signings of the season. Brands The Man!

Kieran - I was just saying cos Steve made the point he could be our James Milner, who's hardly ever played for the Shite in his primary position and played in another position. I certainly would have been more welcoming to this signing knowing Delph, who can play LB was if Baines had exited this summer. We need to trim the squad and it would have also been a clever way to integrate a rookie in Robinson. Yeah, Delph's a snip and could prove to be a very astute signing, but I think that's on the proviso he stays fit and we lose a few senior midfield squad men

This guy will make a few posters eat their words, you can quote me on that next season.

Give the guy a chance and be prepared to be pleasantly suprised.

If the answer lies somewhere in the middle then he's still bang average.

If we suddenly shifted Schneidelin, McCarthy, Besic, then maybe.

Have we really gone from Lo Celso to Fabian Delph.

Like others I always want younger players with potential but we do need balance and I have warmed to this transfer. If we were able to sell Besic and McCarthy for £10m or so then I think this looks like good business, so long as his wages are not too high.

Look forward to seeing what he brings if true.

Not everyone’s cup of tea, but if JP says pass, I’d say that’s one area in which he has the edge over little Gueye!

Hope Gueye stays because modern football is all about having a strong squad, and that’s why I await our next couple of signings, because if we can sign the right players, then I don’t see why we can’t get into the top 4 next season, when “the Phoenix begins to rise through the flames!”

If he can stay healthy. this is a steal.

He is a versatile player who will strengthen our squad without busting the bank, if Besic goes for 5m to Fulham, that will almost cover it.

Man. City are classed as a club who splash the cash around but they have done well with Delph, signed him for £8M and after three years good service they are making a small profit on him.

I think he can be a very good player for The Blues, he’s got plenty of ability, been around and knows the game, I’m sure he will be more professional and add to the team than some of the players we have signed in the last few years and are still here draining the clubs finances.

Thumbs up from me. Get this one done and move onto the more important positions. Striker, centre back and this left footed right winger that he seems to want.

Still, I’d also like to think some of the promising young players could progress through to first team.

Oh, and a forward, and Zouma

...Unless hes been given some assurances of playing time but I can't see where he'll fit in unless he's a replacement for Gueye.

I'm onside with the fact that our recruitment initiative seems to have a preference for talented young players but the last two seasons have often shown us to be lacking leaders, and the opportunity to bring in someone like Delph for only £8 million is a rare one. It might not be the template signing that we have been led to believe that Brands and Silva are after, but occasionally you have to supplement your chosen diet with a side order of something else.

If he is a replacement for Gueye and one of our main signings this summer then I think we need to accept we are competing for the best of the rest position again next season and nothing better.

I think we will have a clearer idea of the future aspirations of the club by the 8th August.

I've nothing against buying a better team but it has already been pointed out that the ledger needs to be balanced.

Football is all about getting shape in your team and we've been all over the place for a few years with square pegs in round holes.

Also, we're soft as fuck, in the middle especially, and it's harder than ever to find a solid arl-arse in the centre who can also pass the ball well and shout the odds as well.

We cannot tie the club to some rigid transfer policy regarding the age range of players. If a decent player at a decent price becomes available that can improve the squad then it makes sense to bid for him. Not every player can be sold on.

Personally I think he will be a replacement for Gueye (who is two months older than Delph BTW) who I think will go to PSG. This is the point of Brands profile. We bough Gueye when he was younger and cheaper and now we are selling him on at a considerable profit. If the clubs intent is to buy young and sell on then we can't complain when they do regardless of who the player is.

I am a big fan of Gueye but he may not be as big a miss as some fear. His ball-winning ability is world class, but what he does with it once he's won it is pretty average. You don't need an out and out ball winner if you have a strong defensive unit that transitions into attack quickly. City, RS, Spurs all do fine without a tackling machine.

I would still rather we keep him as I think he's fantastic. I just don't think we should panic if he goes.

For those holding out hope that we'll keep Gueye and sell Schneiderlin, I think you're going to be disappointed.

Now Zouma, Kean and Malcom please!

Obviously I would hope for us to keep Gueye, but Delph is not a good replacement if he does go. Disappointed with our lack of transfer activity so far and this type of signing, should it happen, I find pretty depressing.

The reality is we can only sign players that want to come to Goodison and up to now the stars of top 6 clubs or players who are wanted by them don't seem to want to.

His injury record is a worry though.

He has a bit of snide and aggression and will bring more professionalism and consistency than Schneiderlin, McCarthy, Besic etc.

He is a winner and has six trophies during his time at City and he is younger than Gana.

All the City fans are wishing him well and very appreciative of what he has done at their club. A very consistent performer for them.

He will fit in nicely knowing through his England journey Pickford, Keane, Baines et al.

I wish him good luck at his new Blue home!

As for the game being faster? I don't think Gomes, Gueye, Davies, Schneiderlin, etc are particularly fast. Pace tends to be up front and out wide not in the middle and it's the job of the midfield players to make the most of it. As for the cost. The money is relatively low because he's not a regular in Man City's side and he's only got one year left on his contract. If we are going to spend our time looking for reasons why we shouldn't buy this or that player we'll never buy anyone because every player has cons as well as pros.

It's a small fee for a decent player who made the mistake of signing for a club who bought him to bolster their English contingent of the squad to meet the rules regarding home grown players quota.

Hopefully with us he'll get games and be the player he could have been if he hadn't took City's gold. He's left it late but he still has two or three seasons in him.

Doesn't fit the profile for the new era, it'd seem. I'm assuming Gana is going then?

Get real we are climbing the ladder slowly this is just the type of player that we need. He is a winner a 100 per cent every game type of player and wants to play for us. Give the lad a chance if he does sign for us.

I suppose it may mean Gana is really moving on to PSG in which case he will help in that regard.

Again, for those thinking he's versatile, covering at left-back for Man City is not covering for anyone else in the league. He barely had any defending to do and had a plethora of options to pass to. It's an illusion since he spent most of that time tucked infield for City.

Remember the tackle on Calvert-Lewin last season too?!

Good call. Paul Power #Legend

He is a top quality player – he was excellent at Villa and not getting games above Silva, Fernandinho and Co says nothing. But Man City did keep him in and around their first team when needed, and this is in a season when one dropped point could have led to losing the title. Guardiola still trusted him.

Our midfield options are poor, Gana will start the season late as his 2018-19 season only ends next weekend.

An injury to Gomes would mean we have no experienced players to come in.

If we are in a battle for top 6, then we need options.

But we don't have £50 million to spend on Ndombele or such.

For £30 million, Brands has got Gomes and it looks like Delph: 2 international midfielders, with Champions League experience, and also with a point to prove. That is excellent value in this market.

Delph will want to be at Euro 2020, he'll be a great mentor for Davies (Delph himself was a teenage 'wunderkid' so will know the pressures).

We now have 4 central midfielders - Gueye, Gomes, Davies, Delph that offer something different, and will challenge each other.

And we didn't break the bank, meaning we can invest in that Forward we so desire.

The deal makes perfect sense.

As it stands, Gueye is still on international duty, and apart from one news report of a supposed derisory bid, there is little to suggest he"ll be sold.

But Besic, McCarthy and I suspect Schneiderlin are not part of Silva's plans. So we need another midfielder.

Now if Gueye does go for £45-50 million, I expect Brands will identify a top quality replacement.

As it stands, I will take the Delph transfer in isolation, and in this respect it makes sense.

We need 2 players for every position: we have Gana, Gomes, and Davies. We need one more, and an experienced international, without denting our funds to buy a forward, makes sense.

I do wonder though if this apparent upset isn't more about over high expectations and hurt pride than whether the player can do a job for the club.

We really need to stop reading the rumour nonsense on NewsNow about those exotic European players we are being linked with and stick to bread and butter reality. We aren't Barca. We didn't win the Premier League or Champions League last season. If we can get just one of the players we are linked with signed I'll be made up but I doubt it will happen. Our expectations have to be realistic.

Besides, just because a player is young and costs a fortune it doesn't mean they will improve our squad. Did Pogba and Lukaku improve Manu's? Did Neymar improve PSG? Did Coutinho improve Barca? Not at all. Yet the 32-year-old Moutinho, who Wolves got for a knockdown £5 million and would have gone down like a lead balloon with some fans had we bought him certainly improved their side. And who wouldn't like to see Patricio in goal instead of Pickford?

Stop looking at ages and prices and sell-on value. Can the player do a job for us? That is all that matters.

Hardly a "journeyman." He left Leeds as a kid because they needed to balance the books. He was the captain at Villa and left to join the best club in England in part because Villa also needed to balance the books. That is the extent of his journeying in the last 13 years.

As far as the English quota goes, Scott Sinclair was the man to fill that box. City signed him, never played him but he was something for Patrick Roberts to chat to in the stands. Delph started 33 league games for City over the last two championship winning seasons despite cumulatively missing 6 months due to various injuries. So if as many have, you want to call him injury prone then I would agree. But the rest of your remarks aren't backed up by the facts.

I can't say I am against this move as I do believe he is a decent player, as I mentioned at the start of the post; I am more surprised from the age point of view than anything else.

Having said that, the last midfielder we got from Man City, turned out to be an excellent acquisition, and I still believe we let him go too early (to West Brom) and going back even further, as someone already mentioned Paul Power, what a bargain he proved to be for us.

We are never privy to what happens 'behind the scenes' obviously M&M know what is happening, so I trust as Marcel Brands has not let us down thus far, that he won't be starting here.

Before the André Gomes situation was eventually resolved, many were saying pay £30-35M, to conclude the deal, due to the astute dealing of M Brands we landed him for £22m, so the 'extra' some would have gladly sanctioned has landed an experienced England International for 'free' apart from wages.

I expect there to be a few more dealings in the next few days, and hopefully some of the ones we all want shipping out, but I am also saddened to a degree that we are letting quite a few decent youngsters go for a lot less than we should have. Antonee Robinson, a US International to Wigan for £2m, surely a deal that favours Wigan way more than us, and he wasn't a high earner on the wages bill.

If Fabian Delph joins Everton and does as well as Paul Power, another 'old man' from Manchester City, he'll do for me.

Delph has only even been a backup there, mostly a plug-in at left-back. Even Milner was a more integrated member of the squad.

Not sure Silva will even realize McCarthy is on the playing staff unless it's been pointed out to him!

No way Williams would get a loan to a Bundesliga team, he's a youth player. Kenny has played quite a few games in the top flight and to some extent is a known commodity at 22. Totally different situation. We should look to get him a loan to a League 1 outfit, unless a Championship team is willing to give him serious game time.

No way Delph is being brought in as a backup to Digne. Guardiola has a thing for playing midfielders at full-back and vice versa (Lahm). He'll play central midfield for us.

If he's as good as Paul Power was, then great... but, for me, we have Davies and McCarthy. What does this mean if this transfer happens? As surely he's not anywhere close to a Gana replacement if the worst happens and Gana goes to Paris.

Let's hope Marcel Brands plays his transfer aces soon.

I think you're confusing Williams with someone else.

"No way Williams would get a loan to a Bundesliga team, he's a youth player. Kenny has played quite a few games in the top flight and to some extent is a known commodity at 22. Totally different situation. We should look to get him a loan to a League 1 outfit, unless a Championship team is willing to give him serious game time."

He is 22 years old, not a youth player, soon to be 23. He has already played 63 games at Championship level over the past two seasons for Barnsley and Bolton where aside from playing regularly, he played very well. So we wouldn't loan him to a third tier team. Yes, he isn't as high profile as Kenny but that is the only part of your post that is correct.

I think we all want Tom Davies to succeed; however, you'd have to have not watched any football over the past 3 years to not see how far superior a player Delph is in comparison.

I'd keep Schneiderlin despite having had many reservations over the years. As for our other option, Besic, he's hardly set the Championship alight...

It's a smart signing at the numbers quoted.

I know that some will consider my philosophy of avoiding issues that I have no control over as a meek acceptance of mediocrity; that is far from the truth. In my book, philosophy and tolerance are completely different things. Hoping to see you at the Excelsior.

Most inept recruitment team ever, in M and M we trust? Yeah Stevie Wonder too. Some people are so deluded they'd have DCL up top and sell Gana etc, we've got Gomes so we'll hit top 6 with over the hill,over priced costa if we were that mental to even think about signing that joke. It's all banter...no it's not, we've signed nobody as per and commen sense we won't till deadline day when even Crouchy turns us down. Malcom, Neres, Zouma, Incardi, anyone worth a shouta.

Strange how we slate people for signing Sandro with a similar philosophy.

I personally don’t think we will ever see Gueye and Delph in the same team.

I don’t see the point of Delph if we keep Gueye, I reckon it’s a decent replacement if we sell him. Different type of player, but still can cover a lot of ground, remain disciplined, put a tackle in when required and lead the team.

As for your comments regarding what type of players Everton hope to sign and what news the fans read, I will treat that with the disdain it deserves.

It's already been reliably reported (for once) that Everton are in no way interested in signing Costa, so there's one gone for starters.

There's just under a month left of the transfer window. Some of you should save your petulance and childishness (in some cases) for when the window's closed and if we've done no decent business.
This really is the age of "I want what I want and I want it now!"

In answer to my wellbeing, I'm going through a sticky patch at the moment but, considering the events of the past 12 months, and the fact that I'm two days away from my 81st birthday, I suppose I should be grateful.

Last time we met, you may recall that I remained on orange juice the entire evening. I'm afraid that I won't be allowed that luxury this time, but that won't result in me giving the get-together a miss.

Meanwhile, I'll continue to read the posts advocating which of the multitude of players we have been linked with actually meet the standard that the 'powers that be' require. Because I have no control over such matters, I steer clear of Everton's transfer policy, and many other subjects.

Sounds like the type of character we need.

Calvert-Lewin
Bernard Sigurdsson Richarlison
Gomes Gueye
Digne Zouma Keane Coleman
Pickford

Substitute ages for names:

22
26 29 22
25 29
25 24 26 30
25

When you consider that Gueye is being chased by one of the richest clubs in the world, and that his back up is 20, is the age of Delph really an issue. Consider that we might replace Coleman in the next year or so and suddenly only Gylfi is over 26. I love younger players and love the way we're going about building a younger, hungry side, but even I can see that Delph's age can be a real positive as it means experience. Gone are the days of spending big on Williams and Walcott. So a bargain priced Delph would be a welcome addition. Better not be a 5 year deal though.

Firstly, Robinson has just been let go and I think it's no coincidence in terms of timing so he will be expected to cover there also if need be.

Secondly, I have been reading that character and leadership is why we have chosen him somewhat against Brands model. This leads me to think that last year during the winter we had too many players unacclimatised and the 3 or 4 who were didn't offer show much example.

I think the staff have noticed this soft belly and don't want a repeat and could see both Gueye and Delph in the team scrapping like dogs and setting standards. I'm not a huge Delph fan but I heard a podcast yesterday where John Giles spoke about Roy Keane and said that all his great games came when his team were up against it or his teammates were having poor games and when they were on form he just kept them ticking over. I would agree and think to a much lesser extent Delph is being bought to do the same for us by getting himself and others at it when we aren't able to play our free flowing football.

On his day he is a good player - he's 100% committed and a leader on and off the field. Everything I've heard about him suggests a model pro (although it appears he did the dirty on Villa - and their fans see him as a snake).

He can reliably play in numerous positions.

He may not be 'the answer' but he could slot in and do a very decent job.

At that price - why not?

I'm also "meh" about this. His injury record is a concern, but again we had similar issues with Peter Reid before we signed him. Then again we also signed big Norman Whiteside

To those suggesting he stiffed Aston Villa, if he'd really wanted to, he could've not signed a new 4.5 year contract in January of that year and left on a free It's possible his about turn was as much about loyalty to Villa as a fear he would be a bit-part in the "City Revolution". It's also possible that then-owner Randy Lerner wanted to cash in on one of their few saleable assets at that time and forced a rethink.

The reality is, as many have identified, we're paying the price for previous profligacy and simply can't spend big on fees or wages, especially after making Gomes permanent. I suspect there's money for Zouma if that can be done, and then maybe one other.

It wasn't that long ago we went 3 or 4 windows without spending a fee on signings...

It’s £8m which in this day and age isn’t a lot of money. If we can shift Besic for £5m then that covers more than half. Hopefully wages won’t be ridiculous so I see 3 year contract as a decent stop gap if Gana goes to PSG - which I think he will.

He’s got a ton of top level experience and has more medals than our current squad pur together. Lord knows we need a winners mentality in the dressing room.

'the very capable Mcarthy as backup' you say?

The same Mcarthy who has played just 10 games in three years for us yeah OK.

I think you're being unfair referring to me as a know it all. I was referring (in particular) to this post which I consider childish.

Most inept recruitment team ever, in M and M we trust? Yeah Stevie Wonder too. Some people are so deluded they'd have DCL up top and sell Gana etc, we've got Gomes so we'll hit top 6 with over the hill,over priced costa if we were that mental to even think about signing that joke. It's all banter...no it's not, we've signed nobody as per and commen sense we won't till deadline day when even Crouchy turns us down. Malcom, Neres, Zouma, Incardi, anyone worth a shouta.

I agree the club said they'd try to get their targets in early but the most relevant point in your post are the words "where possible." Not everything is under the control of Brands and he can't DEMAND someone sell when WE want.

But to refer to Brands and Silva as Most inept recruitment team ever, in M and M we trust? Yeah Stevie Wonder too.

I consider very childish.
If that makes me a know all, so be it.

As Annika points out, why would Guardiola sanction the sale of Delph for the reported 8 to 10 million if he rates him so highly? Clearly, he doesn't. I suspect he's been waiting to offload him since he took the City job. Would we sell Gueye for a similar fee (after all, as some people keep pointing out, they are the same age)? Not a chance.

I hope to God that this purchase is just back-up for sales of the midfield deadwood.

For those in favour - what special quality does he bring ? Is he a great tackler? Is he a prolific goal scorer? Does he take a superb free kick? Has he got fantastic pace? I can't think of anything out of the ordinary this guy could bring - but happy to be enlightened. And please, don't mention experience - we've had heaps of 'experienced' cast-offs and has-beens over the past 20 years and look how many trophies they've helped us to win.

Delph provides a minimum standard of competition. He provides cover for both midfield positions. He offers options. He’s cheap. He’s experienced. He knows what it takes to finish in the top 6.

Solid signing.

A player who really knows his job is so important, and although it’s great signing players with the X-factor, it’s players that you can depend on every week, that are the most important aspect of every team?

How many Everton players would have got in City’s team every week under Guardiola? And how many players have we signed over the last ten years, who really know their job?

Some of those cast offs you describe may not have won us trophies but they have improved the squad/team. Any player who can do that is worth getting and if Delph can have the same impact that Gareth Barry did I’m sure Silva and Brands will be delighted.

I wasn’t excited by this transfer at first as I always want the exciting new thing who may just blossom into a superstar but you need balance and I think Delph could bring a lot to the team if he stays fit (which is my main concern as he’s not played a huge amount in last 2 years).

Totally uninspiring, but probably confirmation that Gueye is going.

We would if he only had a year left on his contract. As it is Gueye's contract doesn't end until 2022 so at present we can hold out for more money. If Delph had a similar contract we would not be getting him for £8 million.
As for his particular abilities. Think back to when we bought Gueye. He was hardly considered the most exciting buy we had ever made. How many of us knew anything about him? Now that we have discovered he's a decent tackler people are making out we can't live without him.
Whether we like it or not Gueye wants to leave and go to PSG. We can get at least 6 times as much for him as we paid. The very definition of Brands policy of buying young and selling on. We need a replacement. Delph is a good solid player. An England international. He has a lot of experience and is a good motivator on the pitch. He has a few decent seasons still in him and we won't have to break the bank to get him. Outside of tackling, which just gets you booked these days anyway, he's at least as good if not better than Gueye at everything else. I just don't see what you're complaining about. Sorry he's not a £50 million quid marquee buy. He's a decent player at a sensible price. I know that's unusual these days but it is what it is.

No worries, thankyou. :-)

I just hope we make some quality additions so this one becomes less of a concern.

I am getting a bit concerned about how our squad will look compared to last season and instead of getting shot of the deadwood its seems to be our better players that are getting mentioned to move on

We shall wait see

@Pat -Nice one :)

Being deemed surplus to requirements at Man City is probably more a reflection on the embarrassment of riches Guardiola has on offer than a major indictment on Delph’s ability. I also think that Delph’s natural game is not an exact fit for the City style and also contributed to his proposed departure.

Some people think getting cast-offs from the top clubs is not a good transfer policy. Signing the best players from relegated clubs is also frowned upon. Signing players over the age of 26 will limit any potential sell-on value - but then when we do have to sell our best players then there are protests about that too. There is no easy street; new signings are unlikely to be popular across the board. The dreamer in me gets excited about unearthing new talent - but the pragmatist in me gets excited about a signing like Delph, who should hit the ground running.

I also think that his injury history is a tad over-stated. He had a cruciate injury about ten years ago that kept him out for a year, and then he had a handful of injuries when he was at City, the worst of which kept him out for about five months.

I saw a couple of headlines that Bundesliga sides want Joe Williams but didn't read the report to see who the clubs are. Of course it could be bollocks but then again Joe's been playing week in, week out in the Championship and got a lot of attention. I don't understand why you don't think a Bundesliga team would want him on loan. As a whole the Bundesliga are buying and loaning cheaper younger talent. If he did go on loan, it doesn't guarantee he'd play each week.

I posted early in the thread that I felt that Delph's signing would have made more sense we'd got rid of Baines, freed up wages from an already bloated squad and used a combination of Delph/Robinson to cover for Digne. Delph's ability to be utility player would have made him more useful.

The other instance I felt that this move makes sense if we sell some of our other midfielders, but maybe I was over estimating our board, just assuming they'll bring in someone comparable to Gueye's ability, some exciting talent from the French league, or Franck Kessie from AC milan, but maybe they're just use a combination of Delph and Schneiderlin to replace him. They'll do a job between them. Delph when he's fit, and Schneiderlin when he's interested. It'll work, but we won't break the top 6, so the same old, same old same old then.

I saw a couple of headlines that Bundesliga sides want Joe Williams but didn't read the report to see who the clubs are. Of course it could be bollocks but then again Joe's been playing week in, week out in the Championship and got a lot of attention. I don't understand why you don't think a Bundesliga team would want him on loan. As a whole the Bundesliga are buying and loaning cheaper younger talent. If he did go on loan, it doesn't guarantee he'd play each week.

I posted early in the thread that I felt that Delph's signing would have made more sense we'd got rid of Baines, freed up wages from an already bloated squad and used a combination of Delph/Robinson to cover for Digne. Delph's ability to be utility player would have made him more useful.

The other instance I felt that this move makes sense if we sell some of our other midfielders, but maybe I was over estimating our board, just assuming they'll bring in someone comparable to Gueye's ability, some exciting talent from the French league, or Franck Kessie from AC milan, but maybe they're just use a combination of Delph and Schneiderlin to replace him. They'll do a job between them. Delph when he's fit, and Schneiderlin when he's interested. It'll work, but we won't break the top 6, so the same old, same old same old then.

I saw a couple of headlines that Bundesliga sides want Joe Williams but didn't read the report to see who the clubs are. Of course it could be bollocks but then again Joe's been playing week in, week out in the Championship and got a lot of attention. I don't understand why you don't think a Bundesliga team would want him on loan. As a whole the Bundesliga are buying and loaning cheaper younger talent. If he did go on loan, it doesn't guarantee he'd play each week.

I posted early in the thread that I felt that Delph's signing would have made more sense we'd got rid of Baines, freed up wages from an already bloated squad and used a combination of Delph/Robinson to cover for Digne. Delph's ability to be utility player would have made him more useful.

The other instance I felt that this move makes sense if we sell some of our other midfielders, but maybe I was over estimating our board, just assuming they'll bring in someone comparable to Gueye's ability, some exciting talent from the French league, or Franck Kessie from AC milan, but maybe they're just use a combination of Delph and Schneiderlin to replace him. They'll do a job between them. Delph when he's fit, and Schneiderlin when he's interested. It'll work, but we won't break the top 6, so the same old, same old same old then.

Delph is a good, solid player with a poor injury record. We have a squad full of mentally brittle players who, in my view, need a bit of leadership and nous. So while he isn't a 'marquee' signing, he brings something we lack. Something that will benefit the younger players who don't have much to look up to.

At £8/9m, he may prove a very astute signing on more than one level. After the failed, expensive 'marquee' signings of two years ago, perhaps a sign that the cheque book is now held by adults?

The club simply need to get the best price possible for him and move on.

If Delph is indeed his replacement, given Gana's unbelievably consistent appearance record, I am worried in that department.

Personally I’d look at it as (hopefully) getting rid of Besic and McCarthy (neither of whom actually play for us but we pay for) and swapping them with Delph, who would play.

That would be a definite improvement.

Everyone crying out for a marquee signing, usually at marquee prices, yet no guarantee they will 'fit into the system' we have had a few in the past who have on paper promised much yet have delivered nothing.

At least with Delph he has a proven track record in the Prem, with 2 Champions Medals to prove it. I don't think we will regret this move assuming it does, as looks very likely, happens.

For fear of repetition, we as fans all want the best for Everton, but are not privy to what is happening either behind the scenes or in the transfer market, so I trust in M Brands, who in my eyes at any rate has not delivered a bad signing yet.

I have done my best to avoid getting embroiled in the merits/faults of various players, but the contents of some posts have forced me to add my two-penneth. My view is that, once they join Everton they should all receive encouragement; after all they then become member's of the 'Grand Old Team'.

A championship club will have Besic, even if we have to loan him for the final year of his contract.

Honestly, £10m given Danny Ings cost £20m, Fred cost £52m, Schneiderlin cost £25m... seems like a no-brainer.

He isn't being signed as a world beater, he isn't a Marquee signing.

Get over it, trust in the people who recruited much better for us last year and let's be positive.

https://forums.bluemoon-mcfc.co.uk/threads/fabian-delph.340605/page-44

"Maybe the fact Delph played in a more advanced position had a lot to do with him scoring more and creating more chances, eh?"

Fabian Delph: Games Goals Assists
Central Midfield 107 7 5
Left-Back 39 - 3
Defensive Midfield 27 3 2
Left Midfield 20 1 1
Attacking Midfield 2 1 -
Right-Back 1 - -
Right Midfield 1 - -

Idrissa Gueye: Games Goals Assists
Central Midfield 155 7 8
Defensive Midfield 123 4 3
Right Midfield 3 - -
Attacking Midfield 2 - -

It's slightly annoying to have had to resort to stat-fetching, but I hope it might take this particular conversation away from just claiming things that are not based in fact.

But I generally take little notice of stats anyway due to the generalisation that they always use regarding a player's position. By the way, I feel your stats suggest more than a hint of minor injuries as you suggest in your earlier post, given the difference in appearances.

Delph’s injury history is well-documented. He’s certainly missed significant chunks of football but he was injury-free last season, and would be signing for us with no current issues.

Gana Gueye at 29 fits the profile, give him more money and tie him down to a new contract.

Quite a few Everton fans...
Delph should stay at Manchester City!

Quite a few Man City fans...
Delph should stay at Manchester City!

Some Everton fans...
A priority is that we need experienced cover at Left Back as Baines cannot play a full season for an injured Digne. We also need to trim the fat in the defensive midfield. We also need funds for a striker asap!

Some Everton fans...
Even though he is good cover at Left Back for an injured Digne and he is also an experienced defensive midfielder allowing us to trim the fat and sell at least 3 of the other defensive midfielders (providing funds for a striker)... they don't want him!!!

Silly season in full effect... Go figure! Mr Brands... Please take the wheel.

Now I have plenty of respect for people having an opinion, but Guardiola knows a player when he see's one. I would suggest that Delph didn't play a great deal due to the players ahead of him as much as injury.

29 years old? So what? Meaningless in the modern game. Remember when everyone on here complained about us signing Gareth Barry? He turned out to be one of the best players we've signed in years (in my view) so again, opinions...

As to his age; Justin Gatlin won the 100 metres at a Diamond League meeting over the weekend, in 9.91: Delph is 8 years younger than Gatlin; 5 years younger than Chris Froome; and 8 years younger than Roger Federer!!

Nicholas (277) - The question will always be whether Froome and Gatlin have managed to achieve those results without significant artificial help. I know people who are fairly adamant that the answer to that question is no. Federer is something else. The man rarely breaks sweat. One of the greatest sportspeople of all-time.

Besic out for £5m makes it a no brainer, but I feel like we may even lose another 2 or 3 centre midfielders in McCarthy, Schneiderlin and Gana.

Fingers crossed we keep Gana, but I'm not convinced.

I think he's going to do really well for us and I trust both Marco and Marcel. COYB

For all Marcel Brands preference for younger players with potential, and resale value, I'd suggest it's worth noting that squads & teams need balance when it comes to age & experience. Delph also offers versatility at either left-back or midfield which give further value to the signing in my view.

Of course we'd all like to be signing the next 'bright young thing' from FC Superstardom but the reality isn't all Roy of the Rovers and we may yet pull off the coup of Moise Kean if the press are to be believed on that front (I know, I know).

Add to that the potential signing of Diego Costa (yep, again, I know, nutcase and 31 in October) who could offer plenty when it comes to a presence upfront, and I would also say that he would be adored by Evertonians. Our support love someone who gives it his all, and love him or loathe him, Costa is a nightmare for defenders and he scores goals in this league. Him & Kean up-top would be an interesting combination if nothing else.

I also recall quite a few on here calling Gueye a championship player at best when we signed him.

Give the lad a chance will ya, we haven't kicked a ball in anger yet and already he's shit.

Ahhh... that explains why he also referenced Kenwright's mum, the Clattenberg derby, and something about ringfencing money at Tesco's!

@ 189 Brian Williams lol. Childish to post an opinion eh ? I'll post what I like as long as it's in from decent taste.

I was born and bred in our town next to our ground in the 70's, have been a soldier then Marine ever since. Moved to London at 20 because I have a better life with the kids and girlfriend regards my job.

I'm a STH for years since the old man rested his head up there and years before that. Played pro football, basketball and several martial arts etc.

Don't try out smart a fella who made an opinion tired protecting this country and planet out to be childish because I thought our slow inept recruitment frustrates me, let alone many others.

There's plenty of like said comments made and I agree with them.

You cut and paste me lol.

Next time address me personally and I'll for sure reply 101%. If I didn't spend the last few months doing my job I'd of posted my piece a bit more concise...don't make a post you don't agree with "childish ".

It's plain as day my post made sense, if a little lazy due to jet lag etc.

Ain't gonna fall out with a blue but get your facts right.

What I said I stand by and with a bit more better wording would be fine.

No dramas man seen more poke over seas. Glad to be home and see the many decent familer people posting I know ..missed ya lads. Good to be home.

He will bring leadership in the dressing room and onto the pitch, something we have lacked for a while, someone vocal on the pitch.

Give the guy a chance, I am well made up we got the guy.

Absolute steal at that price.