Everton announce arrival of James Rodriguez

Yes, it's done!

He’s signed!!

Just confirmed on the beeb!

Finally!

Done deal!!!

Get in! One more to go!

FINALLY PHEW

Sounds a sensible deal too.

Two years with an option for a third year.

Hopefully we have seen the last of five year deals for older players.

These type of players are the difference between a draw and 3 points.

Excited now.

Yes Hugh. Two years with optional third is good.

I’m so happy! Screaming all alone in my place when I received the email lol. Been following James for quite a while, didn’t imagine this though. Carlo fantastico, Carlo magnifico, olé olééé, Ancelotti. COYB, NSNO

Can he get fit? Can he stay fit? I am not expecting great things in the early weeks of the season but if he isn’t firing by Christmas this will go down as yet another failed gamble.

Dude I just got a, "Win my shirt" email.

Welcome aboard you absolute piece of class HAAMEZ!!!

Now stay fuckin' healthy please, we really need you.

He will certainly keep the physios busy.

And breathe.

Just got to stay fit. I am pleased Carlo has been backed.

I won't lie, I was worried he wouldn't - and he'd quit.

Bit disappointing its for 2 years with an option of a 3rd. Sounds a bit like Carlo is only here for a few years?
Maxi Gomes next please...

John Rafterty -

Even if he's continually on the physio table, this is worth the gamble.
The upside is greater than the downside for me.

That being said, 85% wages to turnover isn't sustainable. We have to cut the deadwood after this season and start to run a profitable operation.

76k a year is obscene but considering what some of the wasters are on its a steal!

2 down 1 to go Congratulations on our negotiators, the terms of the contracts seem reasonable, hope these players earn all of any of the add on bonuses

Lets hope he can prove me wrong & get a high performance level out of the guy, I won't hold my breath.

Just got the email from James as I'm sure many of us have outlining how we is looking forward to achieving great things.

We're all hoping so James, welcome to L4.

Let the fun begin. I think 2 years is perfect, incentive to play well to get a third year but if injury prone we aren't stuck in a 4/5 year contract.

Phwoooar!

Yayyyyyyyy!! Chill now. Doucouré tomorrow and then a goalie, right back and possibly a forward player. But with these three we are on the right track!

Everton Football Club just can't win - on the pitch that's been true for too long - but off the pitch, the manager wanted a specific player, the club supported the manager and signed him, but no happiness from some on here about it, if he had been handed a three-year deal, many would have argued that was too long for an 'aged' player, but a two-year deal means that Carlo isn't here for the long-term?

If the club gave some of our fans money for free, they'd complain, either it wasn't enough and an insult, or it was too much and how could they afford it.

The player I wanted to see was Doucoure, he hasn't signed yet, but there's still a chance of it happening.

I'm a bit surprised it's a two-year initial contract with Allan getting three from the off.

It would have been lunacy to award him a longer contract. At least if he isn’t a success we can be rid of him in 2022. Hopefully he will settle quickly and work hard to earn a third year.

The most exciting thing is, we might end up with a team, that don't shit them selfs when they enter a top 4 stadium!

@John17

76k a year? That's only £1400 quid a week. Very reasonable if you ask me. I know he was taking a pay cut but somehow I doubt it's as much as that. Maybe you missed off a few zeroes.

I am absolutely buzzin with this signing, a genuine world class player playing for us! I’ve had Kopites goading me today at work saying “he’s changed his mind,why would he go to Everton their shite”. They are gutted and I m going to work tomorrow with a big grin on me kipper, We’ll done Carlo, well done blues COYB!

Luke @ 25 that's such a good point.

Allan and James will not give two shits stepping foot into Analfield, Stamford Bridge, Old Trafford, etc.

This kid is so intelligent.

And according to SSN Everton are ramping up our South American and American retail business. Finally, Mike G might be able to get a shirt.

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES!!!!!

Do I seem excited?

Hope he stays fit and adapts to the English game such afflictions menace this club.

Welcome aboard y buena suerte Jimmy

Another massive boost, just seen the James pictures, now for Dacoure!

Genuine hope on the horizon for EFC, this season.

Mike - YES! :)

@Jamie28

No. But what about a cold and rainy Wednesday night in Grimsby?

Fantastic signing, just praying that Covid miraculously disappears so I can get to the game

Sounds like both the few (very dependent on clauses) and the wages are fairly sensible. Exciting stuff.

If he can get and stay relatively fit then he could bring a huge amount, both on and off the pitch.

He’s apparently halved his salary, and for only an initial two-year deal. I really do think Carlo has some pulling power.

This needs to be a watershed moment in our recent history. James is a genuine world name, something we haven't had at our club in years - he has to be our Robinho ala City. He has 46 million Instagram followers, only 4 sportsmen on the planet have more than he does. That alone is an instant shot in the arm for Everton.

Aside from that, he's a quality high level footballer and professional - this will give all our players a huge boost as well. James is class and I'm well happy.

And our social media profile just went up 100X.

Barry#32, is that pronounced Himmy?

We don't know how it's gonna pan out, but without a manger with a renowned reputation we wouldn't have landed the last 2 signings. That in itself is a new experience for Everton in the premier league.

Should bring some quality and composure to the final third. DCL and Richarlison should be loving this signing

Biggest ever signing in Everton’s history. I hope he lives up to the billing. I’ve no doubt he will. A generational Talent.

Patrick, I thought all Irish were supposed to be happy go lucky? You don't half sound like a moaning get.

Patrick spot on,I can’t get why anyone would be upset with this signing, when you think of some of the shite we’ve signed for His fee and paid them more than he’s on it’s a win win,

Welcome!!

Hope he stays fit and let them goals come.

I guess someone has to leave now.

This looks to be a really good window.

Benn (#4*) was Eto'o not bigger?

Steven #49,

I'm not the one moaning and I'm not Irish despite the moniker. I was born in Mill Road, Liverpool.

Don't know how to put links on here, but look at the "How we revealed James" video on the official Everton website. Brilliant!

Frank @ 39 -

HAHAHA! Anyone with a heartbeat would be scared of that I'd imagine!

Look at this thread 37 posts in, and by the time I hit 'Submit Your Comment' it'll probably be over 40. Such happiness and excitement.

It goes to show you, through all the arguments and petty little back and forth comments and threads, everybody was on the same page in this respect:

There's a good core at Everton, we've landed a top-class manager, our owner backs us, we just need 2-3 impact players to reverse this downward spiral.

Well done the Club. The reaction on TW here warrants such a comment towards Everton. Everton have done well.

Bring on that new season and let's look up the table and start the ascent we've been craving.

#24 Stephen Mather, I second that.

#31 Michael O'Malley, wish I was there to see that tomorrow!

Patrick, unless you were implying I was the one that the club can never please and showing no happiness?

If you re-read my comment, it said I was disappointed to learn it's only for 2 years. Which surely implies I wanted it to be for longer?! You shouldn't be so quick out of your blocks to have a go!

Rob #54, thanks for highlighting it, the video is pure class

Welcome< James Rodriguez.

A good deal, and not even a gamble if those figures are right. Hopefully now he can stay fit and enjoy his football; if so, he will be a game-changer of a signing.

Doucouré to follow, we now have an excellent foundation for Carlo to build on.

Still a month to go in this window so we can explore one or two good swap and player plus cash deals. We will have suddenly become an attractive proposition to any player we are after.

Really good work so far by Brands and Ancelotti, excellent players for reasonable fees on more realistic contracts.

John, Jamie and James, I don't care if he spends time on the physios table. If he plays only 2/3 of our games he'll still lead us in assists. By double.

And how good is this bargain? Well, here, just as a reminder, is a list of the Blues who make more (some a LOT more) than James' £76,000/week:

Bernard
Mina
Sigurdsson
Gomes
Pickford
Walcott
Richarlison
Digne
Delph

Rodriguez is making £1,000 more per week than Yannick Bolasie.

Whoever negotiated this deal is a master bargainer.

20 million, 2 year contract with option for a 3rd. He's taken a pay cut to come.

This is an excellent deal, and prudently done.

We've obviously got money (I think the USM logos on are wall are a big reason for this), but we are not being reckless. 2 very good players, but we didn't pay over the odds on any. Hopefully a third to come tomorrow in a similar fashion.

If he can play to his best, we've gone and signed one of teh best players in Europe. If he plays to 75% of his ability, he's still our best player. Use him prudently, keep him fit...but this is exciting, and that is what it is all about.

Can't wait to see kids all over with Evrton kits and his name on the back. #

and jeez, he's a beautiful man.

My lad was gutted about getting the No 19 shirt for his Under-11s team... he's absolutely buzzing now!!

Do players wages contribute to FFP?

Find it unbelievable that he is only on a basic of £76k a week!

Minik @56,

I'm actually looking forward to work tomorrow cos they are panicking cos they've signed no-one bar the left-back, and can't believe we've got James.

Steve #57,

My original post wasn't specifically aimed at you as there was more than one post pouring cold-water on the signing.

Although how you worked out the length of the players deal is somehow linked to the Manager's likely time at the club is a mystery as Carlo signed a very long-term deal when he arrived at Christmas.

Anyway, I'm as happy as you are that James has signed and hope that he brings only good times to Everton.

Mike #35,

Excited in the dictionary is quoted as:

1 Passionately aroused,

2 stirred up; agitated and

3 Raised to a higher energy level.

So I guess your neighbors in Seattle will be wondering what all the noise is about.

Hope Rodriguez can retain his previous form and will become as you have always said a great signing.
And yes you do sound excited.

I'm over the moon with this! Carlo Ancelotti just signed James Rodríguez for the Blues!

Let that sink in!!!

Hey Jamie C, the site says Rodriguez is gonna wear #19.

You were right all along. We won't miss Sidibé.

Yessss, congrats everyone :)

Great news. Get Doucouré in and have a clear out in midfield and get three or four more in and another striker. We won't win anything with the majority of last season's midfielders.

Tell you what – he's a right handsome bastard!

Him and Andre in the same team! 😍

He's been given the Number 19 squad number. What other squad numbers are available for Doucouré?

Ben @48, I don't like keep going back to the '60s and '80s. But don't discount Alan Ball.

Mike Gaynes, and why not, everyone for that matter!

Our social media exposure was mentioned by Mike earlier.

My 19-year-old son just called me about 5 minutes ago from the University of Alabama. Why you ask?

"Dad! Did you see Everton signed James??!!"

Again, my American 19-year-old son who is much, much more interested in drinking beer and chasing chicks at Alabama just called in utter excitement to talk about the J-Rod signing.

Fuck ya! UTFB!

Actually, Bill, I live in Oregon. When I went out on the deck and yelled, I scared a couple seagulls on the beach, but that's about it.

Mike @ 68 -

HAHAHAHA! Told ya! 😜

Interview on SSN coming up.

Good player and a good deal.

Yippee...Yippee... Yippie!!!

I'm so excited

What time Rob? to the nearest hour?

Jamie #74, I would say it's gone viral, but that's not a joke you make with somebody who has a kid in Tuscaloosa at the moment.

Jamie my 20-year-old son just done the same. I only usualy get a text when he wants a lift or to borrow some money. Haha!

Will the three of them start next Sunday? Be on the bench? I might have to cancel my tee time.

Where the hell is Doucouré, lol?

Can't be exact, Brian, but anytime in the next 24 hours!

The season I was dreading is now turning in to one I can't wait to start. COYB

Rob, 😂

Rob 72, they could give him 4, 15, 16, 18, 22 or 24.

Two down and one to go. Here's hoping all three can finally make a difference to the squad and get us back to the top six on merit.

It would have been nice to have had them in sooner so that they would be ready for the Spurs game but at least those who do start will know they have to be up to snuff if they want to get more starts.

Moise Kean not playing too shabby for Italy so far today.

Sensible deal given his past injuries. I'm sure he'll be here a third year if he's a success. Need to give Brands credit for negotiating such a deal. Last thing we want is to get burnt by players on long-term contracts not performing.

Metete en tu belleza!!!!!!!!

I'm pleased. This transfer caper is far more pleasurable than watching and suffering unto the actual football season.

As for his looks, I couldn't care less if he's the Elephant Man, the only metric that matters is that he's a far better player than anyone else in midfield we've had for a long time. As is Allan, it appears, and Doucouré as well. Just waiting now for fan ire to shift to our limp strike force and sloppy keeper.

You can still get 300-1 on betfred for us to win the league,

Stranger things have happened, what with the virus still around for the next year or so.

Just waiting now for fan ire to shift to our limp strike force and sloppy keeper.

Patience, grasshopper, patience.

Missed a trick not giving him Number 10. Would have sold more shirts I reckon.

Welcome James "Bond" Rodriguez: License to Thrill!!!

Impressed with that contract. Something sensible for once. I imagine Kenwright was trying to give him eight years and a free room round at his.

Love his soft Yorkshire accent!

Excellent deal for an excellent player. Let's hope he's still got some of the magic left. I think we're due a bit of luck on the injury front so here's hoping he's not out too often. One of my concerns was that he was too slow but I'm hoping that won't be an issue.

There's a large scale across which this could play out. If it's at or toward the good end, we're in for a treat.

Interview just been on SSN. Speaks perfect English and has already picked up a bit of a Scouse accent in the 4 or 5 days he's been on Merseyside!!

Holy fuck... he says he's a real winner... !!!

Think I'm getting a bit giddy...

Get the fuck in there, COYB!!

Sorry, Mike,

I thought I remembered you saying about selling a beach house in Seattle. Never mind... I was just one state out.

These two deals so far may have taken time as going on the contracts signed they seem reasonable compared to the quotes when they were first talked about. Hopefully with Brands we have got a serious negotiator, and in Ancelotti we have a manager who players really want to play for.

Two years is plenty. If he guides us to 38 wins next season, he can have the second year off.

What a day, I've just found the Arteta money down the back of the couch... Should stretch to a coupla cans to celebrate!!!

Great news. Hopefully Doucouré soon and a goalkeeper, right-back and centre-back (maybe a loan).

Given their ages, the contract lengths seem very sensible... Am I correct in thinking both will expire before Besic's does? (He seems to have been with us for close on 10 years!)

He'll put it the ball on Calvert-Lewin's nut about 5 times every game. We will find out whether Dom can handle it for real.

You have to back ambition and that is what the club has shown with this.

I think many on here owe Brands a big apology – I certainly do – he has now shown what he is about.

Well done, everyone and roll on Sunday – as others say above, Allan and James will not fear the big 6 away – those are the games these type of guys live for!

I'm 44 and can't remember a more high profile signing. Incredible... still has some years ahead of him and, with Carlo, we can build a side around him for a few years.

Well done, Everton – this player is going to bring so much interest to our team. Everyone will want to see how he performs every week in the Premier League.

He is he 4th most followed player on social media in the world... and the most followed now playing in England... and we have him! Love a bit of limelight for our club!

Just realised James taking Number 19 could mean Gylfi is going nowhere!!! :-(

There'll be plenty of time to grumble and say "I told you so" if he gets hurt or things don't pan out. But if you aren't bursting with excitement RIGHT NOW, then what's the point of being a fan?

I'm still sort of "shellshocked" and have to keep telling myself it really has happened.

I just hope he rips the absolute piss out of Liverpool when we play them, and lots of other sides as well, like!

I'm hoping he can have a "Kanchelskis Derby"... no pressure on him, mind you.

I think we should capitalise on this and bring another 2 or 3 in after Doucoure. Let's go for it.

If we can't sell Sigurdsson, okay, not great... but maybe being dropped, and firmly losing his spot as 'most valuable and undroppable player' could maybe spark a reaction from him and he could be ideal back-up or substitute for James.

In answer to comments regarding Eto’o and Alan Ball

Eto’o was well spent when we got him. In name he was huge, but he was 34/45 wasnt he ? A huge name no doubt but James is 29! Still has many miles on the clock, hasn’t had a lot of football mileage last season so I’m

Hoping he fresh and he’s never been electric pace wise so I’m expecting close to his best if he’s can stay fit.

Regarding Alan Ball, I was a twinkle in my dads bollocks, I’m 37 just turned and I can only imagine that this is what it felt like to the older generation when we signed Alan Ball.

Unbelievable.

Oi, our midfield is potentially Allan, Gomes, Doucoure and James Rodriguez! My head is cabbaged here. Is this real? The fuck is actually going on!!!!

He'll be gone after 2 seasons. Worst contract I've ever seen or heard of. :(

Eto'o was more like when Gazza joined us.

Well fan my brow !
Doucoure tomorrow the we have the "Three Must Appears !"

🤐

Got to be 4231 now surely, with James as the 10 but more likely to the right, Richy on the left and Sig / Bernard in the middle

Feck me I’m as giddy as a pre teen tart at a Beatles show

Bet he’s excited about playing Salford next week

Nick #97, and a couple of tickets to see “Blood brothers”.

Aplogies, can't stop posting. The naysayers on BBC banging on about his age, he's not even 30 until July. This is a masterstroke by Carlo and Brands.

I'll be honest, I was quite sceptical of this move at first. He seemed another Eto'o, Gazza or Ginola. Or perhaps as he's a bit younger a Drenthe or Van Der Meyde. A player past his best and on his way down.

But a load of you were excited, and the YouTube links started coming thick and fast. A few who have seen him play in the last few years, particularly the none Everton guys, said he ain't as finished as you might think, and I began to reconsider my position on the lad.

Now he's signed and I've seen that he's on almost £50k a week less than Bernard! He only cost £20m, and it's only a two year commitment if he's as bad as in the nightmare scenario. Well, thank you Mr Brands. You've outdone yourself on this one. I think this is as close to a no risk transfer as could realistically be done in the circumstances. A player who genuinely was once world class who is still in his 20s on a (comparatively) reasonable wage and for a (relatively) low transfer fee. Can anyone really ask what Brands does and why these deals take so long? The man is really earning his coin right now. This is what a Director of Football does, and right now, he's doing it very well.

After Doucoure tomorrow we’ve sorted our midfield Issues hopefully. What do you reckon our next priority position is lads? (Bar outgoings!)

All these efforts would count for nothing if we don't do anything about the keeper, defense and striker positions!

That’s the Spirit Steve, #127.

Our new midfield spares us having to watch last season dross.

Great times.

Steve #127. I like that post on several levels. Nice one.

Steve F. Makes you wonder whether the huge increase in Everton's world profile played a part in the transfer too.
How much are 8 million shirt sales worth?

Martin #121 “Well fan my brow !”

That’s a side-splitter!

Hang on lads, Just seen the video on club site and l think this might all be fake! That doesn’t half look like they’ve used my body and superimposed his head..

Can’t wait for the weekend now. Although how do you include 3 new players in a team after just 4 days together.

20 million fee and wages in line with our top earners seems like good business. Really intrigued to see where he's deployed.

Welcome to the party, Steve. Didn't want to celebrate without you.

Hope it’s not another false dawn and he can stay fit and motivated for CA. But genuine class act if he can.

If we can get Doucoure, this would represent a top quality window. A new keeper would be the icing on the cake.

Top 6, four points (min) off the RS and the league cup is all I ask for this season.

COYB

Why limit it to 8 million shirt sales Brian? Supposedly 90 million followers on social media, probably some duplicates there but those folks need home and away. Make the name on the shirt "James Rodriguez", not just "James" - more letters. Say the shirt goes for 60 pounds (Bargain that). So sales on the order of 5.4 billion pounds. We could either buy all the best players, or just the refs. We're gonna win the league!

I was about to write something similar Steve F. Brands has pulled off a very good deal here. Well done Marcel but Ancelotti is the game changer here. Without him these two don’t sign.

Credit where it’s due!

I’m getting greedy now. Doucouré next then another couple for deadline day!!

Except here in our US of A, Steven. Here we'll be able to get knockoff t-shirts from Chinese online vendors with "Rodriguez" mispelled.

I am not expecting any marketing miracles from our beloved club.

At long last it seems that the club is entering the 21st century, perhaps the financial impacts of the COVID pandemic have accelerated the need to grow revenue streams, but maybe this activity was already in the pipeline.

Everton are set to accelerate their plans for international growth following confirmation of James Rodriguez's signing.

The Colombia international has moved to Goodison Park from Real Madrid on a two-year deal, with the club having the option for a third.

And the arrival of the playmaker, who has nearly 100 million followers on social media, is set to fast-forward plans the Blues had in place to expand internationally.

The club's new signing is the 8th most followed sportsperson on the planet and Everton are ready to capitalise on that.
James Rodriguez signs

The club has already seen support grow in both the USA and South America thanks to former players, official memberships and the growth of supporters clubs.

Everton were set to travel to the US and South America for friendlies because of this before the impact of COVID-19 stopped those plans. The signing of Rodriguez will kick international growth into gear, however.

Launch activity will see outdoor media and activations in Colombia and Miami, while there will also be enhanced distribution of merchandise through Fanatics.

The club now plans to open its first international office in the USA, with a final location of either Florida or Southern California still to be decided upon.

Dedicated social media accounts and web pages are also set to be launched in the coming days with bespoke content for a South american audience.

Everton's official website will have Spanish landing pages and both Spanish and Portuguese will become permanent additional languages in the coming weeks.

Ambitious Plans

Steve#138.
I may have got me figures wrong mate.

Hello Mike G.

I once ordered a Seinfeld box set, thinking it was cheap and a good deal. Turned out it was a Japanese copy and it was called Seimfeld.

Moise Kean just missed a absolute sitter.

I can’t remember being so happy about a signingS. Since we bought Arteta, Cahill and Pienaar. Finally some steel and guile in midfield.

Moise kean played just under an hour for Italy against Holland tonight. Mancini must really rate him! Let’s hope we see the best of him this season. Carlo is certainly putting the players in place to help him

Moise Kean just burst in behind the Netherlands backline, rounded Cillesen... and missed. Ah well.

Tell ya what, though, if he makes those kinds of runs and shows that kind of searing pace when Mr. Rodriguez is on the ball, he's gonna get more chances like those.

Stephen, Ancelotti has the pulling power, but Brands has the negotiating skills. These two are going to show you how the role of Director of Football really works. Ancelotti requests and Brands delivers, but not like Walsh did for Koeman with £45m Gylfi on a 5 year deal on silly money.

I think that failing to sign a centre-back, his refusal to get mugged, which made me livid at the time, and cost us big time last season, is a sign of how tough an negotiator he is. He won't squander Everton's money like Walsh did. Sure he overpaid for Richarlison (as it appeared at the time), but we had no leverage in that deal, Watford always had us over a barrel there.

Sure, Brands has a long way to go to really fix this team, and Doucoure is not enough, but he's showing himself now. Particularly if he keeps delivering Branthwaites and Nkoukous on the side.

Patrick #141, that looks great.

After 35 years, however, I'll believe it when I see it.

I’ve ordered the Colombia top, fuck it.

My head is rolling down Everton brow!

I still can’t believe our midfield 3 is gonna be Allan, Doucoure and James.

This is like an episode of Black Mirror. My head is absolutely cabbaged here.

I’m meant to up for work at 4am, that’s not happening. Not a chance I’ll be sleeping any time soon. Feels like Christmas Eve only instead of Teenage mutant ninja turtles, a boglin and Stretch Armstrong, I’ll be unwrapping a new midfield of which the likes I haven’t seen in blue.

No more Claus Thomsen, Steven Hughes and Simon Davies!

Milk this lads, milk it dry! ..... before Salford knock us out the cup!! 😂 Oh Everton we love you!

This is what I have been looking for since Moshiri bought the club.

A proper MF with world class players.

It will take time to gel and I hope we have patience but once they gel watch out Premier league.

Not wrong Brian, just more realistic than my wildly optimistic projection. Crazy money still if yours are close to correct, and Mike G's counterfeit concerns don't play too big a part

Yes but this is Everton

Dacoure joins spurs

Ancelotti resignes as a result of not getting what he wanted

Richarlison gets pissed off and joins Arsenal for 10m on deadline day

Allen gets injured for the season in the first game after a tackle by Dacoure who also scores the winner

Everton apppint Eddie how as manager

James keeps mispronouncing his name as Eddie Who

Eddie gets annoyed with this and send James on loan to a club in Columbia - we pay all his wages

It’s turns out that a lesser spotted speckled pigmy otter lives on the site of Bradley more and the stadium is cancelled.

We finish 12

If we manage to get a top class right back, we really could be challenging for top 6 this season.

We should go all out for Max Aarons.

Reminds me a bit of the Kanchelsksis signing. Hope to God he can have that kind of impact. And we can keep him.

This most notable thing for me in the interviews of Allan and now Rodriguez on signing is that they both describe the same primary quality about themselves:

They like to WIN!

Another shared comment they have in common is that Carlo Ancelotti was a major contributing factor in why they chose Everton. I see some on TW already attempting to degrade the Italian's influence, arguing it's all about the money. And of course, a professional sportsman will look after his own best interests by getting the best financial package he can.

But then you read in James Rodriguez case he has taken a considerable drop in salary to join us, so the money argument doesn't carry much weight. I think they are being genuine in saying Carlo's presence at Everton was a huge determining factor for them both.

It certainly makes a refreshing change on transfers in previous years in which the name of BK was always slipped into the script for particular praise.

A caveat I should add is that maybe we have got James on the (comparatively) cheap both on the transfer price and his salary because he has retained control of his image rights. Given his number of followers on social media (4th in players still playing, only behind CR7, Neymar and Messi) that dwarfs Everton's own following, that is probably prudent on his part.

Another thing that may have slipped people's attention is how the club site is seemingly getting its shit together on these Latino signings. There was a detailed page in Portuguese on the Allan signing. They have done the same today in Spanish for James:

El Ganador James Promte Traer Su Mejor Juego a Everton

So well played Everton, on a number of fronts.

Oh! And I agree with Rob Halligan. The James Rodriguez Reveal Video is a corker.

Jesus wept, Nathan.

Talk about pissing on my chips!

Fran#154.
Fran I'm almost sure he's just signed for Newcastle!

Edit. I can't find that info anywhere but was sure it showed him on SSN scoring against us and then how he's signed for Newcastle.

I may be suffering from Rodriguezitis!

Really Brian? I saw they got Lewis, but had seen Aarons linked to PSG among others. Quite a coup for them if so.

Shocking. At this price it suggests we've gotten a player 60% as good as Alex Iwobi. Surely we should be aiming much higher?

Just looked at the odds on Unibet. 250/1 to win the title but only 14/1 to get top 4. Each way bets of there only pay out on 1st and 2nd so perhaps top 4 is not that far fetched according to the bookies!

Saw that Fraser has signed for Newcastle. Many, including myself, thought he'd be a good shout for us.

Think James will help me get over not signing him.

Jay, you cannot under-estimate Carlo's role in this. He's clearly been in the Titanic Hotel with both Allan and Rodriguez, and also the other soon-to-be Everton player, Doucoure.

And as good as Brands has been at getting the deals done for a more palatable price, he wouldn't have pulled them off if it was Silva he was signing them for.

Fran I think I may have had a mild stroke when James was announced and it's scrambled my brain!

Ahaa it was Jamal Lewis and he's "close" to signing for them. D'oh!

Brian, you into those funny mushrooms again?

No, Aarons hasn't signed with anybody. Latest news is that PSG are in for him after Mourinho ran the rule over him and decided he wasn't for Spurs.

I understood the doubt surrounding Ancelotti's appointment. Had his day, won't be able to attract players just because of the name because of the situation we're in etc.

I think the past 2 days have proven that players will come because of a coaches reputation and name. We wouldn't have been shopping in this supermarket were it not for the coach.

Now he has his players, he can be judged on what's served up on the pitch.

Already 1.7 mil views on Twatter...hues an early indication of his pull.

Great news! Where's Paul Hewitt who said this wouldn't happen (?). Paul, as you are tucking in to a Cornucopia of Humble Pies, it's happened mate! :-)

Great news, as many skeptics have doubted this signing he's here now, I can only see the positives in this acquisition.

Talking of signings, what has happened to Doucoure? Has he vanished into the Watford Gap?

Benn what about the signing of Gary Liniker. But this signing could be massive,and I still think that Dracoure will benefit the most with Allan and James beside him he will become our midfield general

Brian, you've got it just slightly muddled in your head. Newcastle are about to sign a Norwich full back. Only, it''s the speedy Jamal Lewis. Max Aarons is linked to PSG and Bayern Munich.

I edited this as I got them confused too! Easily done. Both great young prospects, but we've got Nkoukou on the left and I think we won't have enough left on the revised FFP budget to sign anyone else.

Waiting for Sly Stallone and other celebs to "like" on social media, that would just take us into another world as a huge club now.

Giddy times for many years ahead.

BTW when it comes to instagram/twitter following, James is the 6th most popular sportsman IN THE WORLD. Surely that shift some shirts

Soz all. I'm sooo giddy from our news!

Pleased that Ancelotti has got his man, though he isn't really what we need. Ancelotti should have no complaints. He better be right with this one. Lets not get too excited, I pray that both James and Allan perform. It is all well and good getting these type of players but plain and simple whoever we get has to perform. I hope Doucoure is next, he is the one we really need to partner Allan. Best of luck James, fingers crossed that he is a perfect fit for us.

Derek@168. I always knew this transfer would happen. Never in Doubt mate. :)

Jay,
Thats a really good point that I picked up on too.

These guys are not here to enjoy a well paid holiday they are here to win things and have got the ability and determination to do it.

Hope you and the family are still doing well and thanks for the support and advice.

Im quite happy that weve sorted out our carbuncle of a MF out.

It would be a real bonus to get a quality RB and GK in too.

How do our " experts" feel about the chances of the 3 amigos (subject to Doucoure signing) playing against Spurs this weekend who are desperately trying to get the league to allow them to let supporters in.

That’s apparently going to become the normality with both Spanish and Portuguese, set to be added to the club’s future posts Jay.

I haven’t missed football, I can’t get excited about the season starting on Saturday, but it doesn’t mean I can’t relate to Benn@150, and smile when I picture Mike G, scaring a couple of seagulls when he let out his roar, all the way in the USA!

Ancelotti has sold the dream to a couple of his ex-players, and now we just need to see them make our dreams come true. Especially for people like Benn, and my sons, and the young lads everywhere who follow Everton so passionately, but have yet to see us win a cup.

For the people who get up in the middle of the night, or the people who travel wherever Everton play, and have often witnessed shite. Win us a trophy, then let Carlo and our players witness a celebration that will live with them forever... COME ON EVERTON, DO IT FOR THE FANS,!

Zaha being linked to us again but dependant on us getting rid of at least five footballers and Iwobi, according to twitter.

Brian, I suppose if Marcel Brands really was a world class Director of Football, he could do a Kylian Mbappe loan move for Max Aarons to get around FFP. Remember that? How on earth did they get away with that? I still scratch my head that Monaco went along with it. Maybe if we agreed to pay Norwich £25m instead of the reputed £20m price tag, on an obligatory purchase agreement, they might go for it?

Steve @ 163. Like you, I also think Marcel Brands deserves some credit for these deals.

The fees paid are refreshingly reasonable compared to what was quoted. Brands and Everton have possibly held their nerve in not paying over the odds too early.

I had hoped to have seen more from Brands in signing the little-known rough diamonds which he achieved with tremendous success in Holland. But then, Brainthwaite and Nkoukou may well prove to be exactly that type of signing.

Right now, the Brands-Ancelotti combo appears to be working in great harmony IMO.

Hey Steve you never know what might happen with "you know who" in the background. 😉

Usmanov is the only superhero I’d love to be Brian W!

Usmanov is the only superhero I’d love to be Brian W!

Eugene, #169 again, another big big signing but I’m too young g to remember they hype around it.

Tony, #177 I was at the old Wembley and I seen us win the FA Cup in 95 but I was 11 and it’s been a long long time. I’ve been there when we’ve come close again a few times but this genuinely does feel like a turn in the tide. The Everton Moshiri said he’d bring us. I hope the players can cope with the expectations that players like James and Allan will bring. Exciting times mate.

Absolutely Tony. My father's tales of the 60s kept me going. Witnessing Everton win trophies in the 80s is why I still believe. Our time can and will come again. And totally agree, respect to the fans on here who live in different time zones. I've worked in the US, Middle East and Far East so had to watch Everton at unsociable hours, so hats off to those global blues. I don't want to get massively over the top here, but something is feeling right and positive about this. Come on Everton.

For any Steely Dan fans, James’ number is 19. The Dan classic Hey Nineteen features the lyric “the fine Colombian” in its chorus.

Nick #97, and a couple of tickets to see “Blood brothers”.

Am I the only one who can't wait for Darren Hind to drop in?

Shaun #167, Twatter? Sounds like a service I want to join... but shouldn't tell my wife about.

One thing I was talking about with a mate that I haven't seen discussed is a change in attitude. It's hinted at by the two Jays above with their references to the new guys being winners.

I feel that since Martinez' first season finished, there's been a general culture that developed at the club, that became our identity. A team that under-performs, that is easy to beat, that has a soft centre, that throws the towel in too easily, that cannot fight back and win, etc. The players and managers have changed, but this culture lingered on. Like the older players passed on, "this is how it's done here" to the new guys, and our biggest players were too comfortable on their ridiculous contracts and five year deals, safe in the knowledge that they can see off any manager, and that when the going got tough, the manager got going, not them (in both senses of the word).

Could it be, that a general sense of culture change at all levels of the club is happening this summer. The "Carlo Fantastico" wave of euphoria quickly faded away with the lack of fans cheering the lads on after Covid, and the players reverted to the culture I mentioned above. So, now we have 3 big new signings, Allan with his Champions League experience, and the form that saw PSG covet him, and a genuine world superstar in James. The fans, if they were allowed in for the first game, would be bouncing. This, even if we aren't present, will rub off on the players. It will get through.

Gylfi, one of the aforementioned comfortable players, has already turned down playing in competitive games for his nation, in order to be at Finch Farm and to play against Preston in a friendly. Could he be shifting attitude. I don't insinuate for a second that Gylfi, or indeed any specific player is a bad apple. But having a five year deal, knowing Everton sack the manager every 18 months, and surely, at least sub-consciously, the player on a long deal will think if it all goes wrong, he's safe, they'll just get another manager in and buy some players to play around him.

Well today that changed. At least I hope it has. This could be a real turning point in Moshiri's tenure. If we can get some momentum going now, we could ride an ascent all the way to the new ground, and then, well the sky could be the limit.

I think I've had too much Champagne!

Steve#127
I realy respect your knowledge and everything EFC but Van de meyde and Drenthe?
In comparison to James Rodriguez?
Maybe you were comparing ages but.
Did I miss some joke there?

Jesus Steve, champagne? And here's me thinking I'm living the highlife on Lucozade Carribean Crush!

Get part 3 of the new midfield engine tomorrow, and a massive boost for Sunday, and hopefully no more injuries.

Great dealing by Marcel and Carlo, if we get Dacoure, it’s been, on cost, perhaps the best window in recent times, only time will say, if they’ve delivered, but I believe under Carlo, and with h8s choice of players, we now have the framework, for a new Everton style of play.

it will be interesting to see the shape of the team on Sunday.

Can’t wait and hopefully we’ll be celebrating on Sunday night!

Billy, Everton players who were in their 20s coming from big clubs (Real Madrid and Inter Milan) with big reputations, but their best days, for various reasons, clearly behind them. I ain't saying James is a boozer with a penchant for knocking up strippers, or is going to throw his football career away to become a gangster rapper.

I just had concerns is all. The fees revealed completely allay those fears for me. It's a gamble very much worth taking.

Phil McNulty sums it up on his social media. With all due respect, without Ancellotti, those 2 players simply don't sign for Everton right now

When people are talking about formations. I think if you have a picture in your head of 9 outfield players, in a defensive shape, then that's best. So for me, 433 is 432, whilst 4231 is 4221. 432 is a lot more solid that 4221. I think that's how we'll play. With Gomes deeper than Allan and Doucoure for the "easier" games, sitting and directing things from deep. Whilst the triangle would be flipped for the "harder" games with Gomes ahead of them.

I think Richarlison and Calvert-Lewin would line up like they do in a 442. Richarlison pulls to the left anyway, he runs the channel and tracks back. Calvert-Lewin is a bit more central, doesn't run the right hand channel as much as Richarlison and tracks back less.

So you give Rodriguez a complete free role. Go wherever you want. Play from the middle, but hit the right channel if you can, sure as Gaynes said, he can track back, but that's a bonus rather than a key component of the tactics, so if he does switch off, it's not the end of the world.

With 9 disciplined players, and those 9 would all be so, and are so, then you can have room for a maverick. But he needs to be a level above the rest. James should be able to be a level above our squad, even if he's only 80% of what he was. And at 29, and looking as fit as he has been looking in those gym photos, could anyone really rule out him getting back to 100%?

Free role in a 433 playing behind Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison, slightly ahead of Doucoure and Allan with Gomes at the base of a diamond, for me. Lacks width for sure, but right now we lack effective wingers, and Walcott, Bernard and Bolasie could be options from the bench if we need to change tactics, and indeed you can just put one of them on, on the right and move Richarlison left and you have the personnel for a 4231 and different tactics with a lot more width.

I've not been on here much recently, too busy working on my latest book but also been waiting and waiting for something positive to happen, and at last, it has.
Even without Doucoure, the signings of Rodriguez and Allan give me real cause to hope for a bright future under Ancelloti.
His pulling power doubtless was a major influence in convincing these two players to join Carol's Revolution.
If he can now magic up a central defender and a decent striker, we might just be going places in the coming season.

What's the book Brian?

Two massive signings, and hopefully Doucoure shortly. Steve I know you're praising Brands for the negotiations, but these deals were all Ancelotti. I'm not putting a damper on Brands, but in the present climate, the fees are less, look at the deals for Bernard, Mina, Delph and Iwobi. If he can get rid of some more of the deadwood, which I give him credit for,we could bring in a couple more top additions. Carlo has definitely transformed the midfield, just waiting on Doucoure.

Any more Mersey murder books planned Brian?

Yes yes yes get in.

A genuine top class player. We need to introduce him slowly into Premier league life and don't play him in the cups or when not fully fit.

I still think we could and should have loaned him for a season, an £8M loan fee. I've no idea how fragile or what pace he has retained but we have Ric and DCL to do his running. He's only 29 so he should be in his peak years!

I'm hoping he and Mina can quickly gel on the pitch and Bernard re-learns a few samba beats. We should get rid of the Colombia coffee from the physio room too. A few have been enjoying time in their far too much.

I thought Eto did well for us and I know they were past their best and we were in a very sour pickle but I loved watching Gazza stroll around the pitch spraying passes around. Ginola's skills on the wings. Bright but fading light's that still shone brightly against the rest of the darkness.

I'd love a proper winger to entertain us. Why we didn't move for Fraser on a free I don't know. I'm not complaining, just an exciting winger would be the cherry on top for me.

I'll mentally right September off whilst we adjust and get up to speed.. points gained will be a bonus.

Christy, these deals weren't all Ancelotti. He had nothing to do with the fees, either the transfer or the contracts. Ancelotti certainly doesn't get involved in that. And that's Brands remit. This transfer is exactly what our management duo should all be about. The pulling power and charm of the esteemed Carlo Ancelotti, combined with the steely negotiating of Brands. A team effort, with clearly defined roles, working perfectly in tandem.

If we had Carlo and Steve Walsh, well we'd have signed the pair a week ago, but on 5 year deals, twice the transfer fees and thrice the wages!

Jay H @ 176.

I saw your post in Saturday's match day thread that you were feeling better since catching CV-19. Hope the uptick continues. The transfer news must be helping!

Hope you found the linked article I posted interesting. Very in-depth, heavily laced with scientific and medical terminology, it took a good 2-3 reads to take in.

Given the millions of data and billions of possible combinations, it's no surprise the world's 2nd most powerful computer took a week to churn out the results.

Very interesting that the conclusion is that CV-19 is now considered more a vascular rather than respiratory virus and that, by and large, we already have existing approved medicine that can treat the ten most common conditions.

Keep safe! Keep healthy!

Nathan # 153. Lol. You certainly have a vivid imagination. Funny stuff.

Brian’s new books surrounds a mysterious large metal casket found in the mud of the Bramley Moore Dock. When hauled out and scrubbed clean some letters could be just about read that were stamped into the metal. T h e A r te ta Mo ney.

If there's a record for the quickest to 200 posts on TW, this thread just broke it.

Mike #188 don’t tempt providence!

Yep, Tony, and the title of the book is "Ringfenced".

Brian W@191, Lucozade Carribean Crush?

The last time I was with you, I could have sworn it was masquerading as Desperadoes! :-)

We should go all out for Zaha now, especially at the deflated prices now being touted.

Haha you're right Derek but early start in the morning so no alcohol tonight mate!

Steve (#189) as far as I'm concerned you're bob-on re the malaise that's engulfed the club's mentality for many, many years at USMFF.

As my many fans will expect, I lay the blame for this culture of mediocrity wholly at the feet of the one man who in the past thirty years has been active in our boardroom, filling USMFF with unqualified, ex-players who'd all squandered their playing careers but still doffed their cap to you-know-who and thereby became part of the coaching staff

In such an environment they'd be totally bonkers to sublimate their allegiance to you-know-who in favour of any manager, eighteen months being the average span of a manager's tenure here since Moshiri bought in, with him most recently announcing to the world that you-know-who is, as chairman, being given a more enhanced role.

Sigh.

Don, we just signed two of our biggest players of at least the last 25 years, and for the first time in major Everton transfers, I haven't seen a picture or a mention of your mate. Usually there's a mention thanking the Chairman (for giving them a ridiculously overpriced deal!). But here, on both Allan and Rodriguez, nothing. Not a single mention, even in passing.

Are you sure he's playing a more enhanced role at the moment?

OK, everybody pause your posting now and skip on over to Lyndon's article, "Ancelotti Sprinkles Some Colombian Stardust with a Point to Prove", linked just under the headline to this thread.

It's an elegant summary of the Rodriguez signing and one of his best pieces ever. Go.

(#211, oy vey. Talk about a one-track mind. Sometimes all you can do is laugh.)

I can endorse your comments there Mike. It is up there with his finest work.

Vinny O'Connor, Sky Sports Everton reporter (or at least one of their North West contingent) is on the record saying that he expects us to sign a winger and a right back and that our spending is not finished.

Being realistic, how about £10m for Diogo Dalot and somehow cobbling together enough to sign Zaha?

I follow Portuguese football, but Dalot barely played for Porto before Jose Mourinho signed him for Man Utd. I know he was extremely highly rated, and is a right winger converted to a right back (as many of them are, even our own Tony Hibbert played right wing in the FA Youth Cup and our excellent young right back against Preston NE, Kyle John played right wing all his youth career up to this season when he played a few games at right back). Dalot has looked shite for Man Utd, for sure. But at 21, cheap, he could be worth a punt, particularly to come in against weaker sides and offer pace and width down the right. Max Aarons is a good shout too, but he'll cost double.

Can we afford Zaha? Is he worth it? I think last summer Palace held all the cards. This summer, it's them looking to cash in. He wants out, he's unsettled, and they have lost most of their leverage. Can they afford to keep him? They need reinforcements in other positions, and perhaps an exchange for the resurgent Bolasie (who will have impressed them in the two friendlies, at least showing he is over the injury and capable of getting back to previous levels with them). Brands might be able to make them an offer they can't refuse. Imagine James, Zaha and Richalison making up the 3 in a 4231!

To be honest, I'm not advocating spending silly money on Zaha, and think he might be slightly overrated, but that's a mouth watering attack, and who knows how good Zaha could be if he ever brought his "A game" to a top side with top players, which is where we will now hope to be.

I think Doucouré’s signing will probably be the last for this window.
I also doubt (despite some people’s hopes) Gylfi, Bernard, Gomes or Davies are on the ‘definitely gone’ list as well. I’d expect they will have until Xmas to see if they can complement the new recruits and if not they will be invited to move on in January. I think the revised closed season will mean much more business is attempted in that window across the board.

Don #211 surely the last post (in more than one sense) on any notion that “he must not be named“ is anywhere central in the club’s real business.

Si #215 agree completely on those you mention still being with us for now. Others far less likely.

2 time Champions League winner, 1 x UEFA cup winner, 7 x top Division League winner, FIFA World Cup Golden Boot, FIFA World Cup dream team, FIFA All Star team, and so much more.

Best of all he's matured, humble and hungry and he's willing to take a pay cut to prove it.

There is still a lot of work to be done but honestly well done Marcel Brands and Carlo Ancelotti. We have signed a player who at his best shares the same level of craftsmanship and ability as Zinedine Zidane... and that is no exaggeration.

Once your heart is touched by Everton you are never the same. Here's hoping James shows the world just how good he is.

Brent, as per my post at 214, Vinny O'Connor is saying otherwise. So maybe we're not yet done, even after Doucoure.

Who'd you like to see if we added a right back and a winger?

Tony, now you have me thinking BK might have got confused with two envelopes he had, one of which said ‘Theatre money’!

Agreed, Si, although I wouldn't be surprised to see perhaps one of them depart sooner just to balance the checkbook a little.

But yes, I think most of those four plus Delph and Walcott will likely be given their chances to blend in with the new arrivals, and whoever fails will be cheerfully provided with new employment in the New Year.

The last time we signed a player that suggested we were a major force was Gary Lineker. In my view this is right up there with that. I bow to no one in glass half emptiness, no one.

My glass will never be full, I'm an Evertonian after all, but it won't take too much to top it up. In fact this is one of the great days. Sitting with a glass of wine overlooking Eyre Square in Galway, reading this news. Yeah, this is alright.

Steve #219 I was agreeing on who might still be with us, not that we won’t sign any more. Having said that, my mind hadn’t dared turn to even more signings but I would be over the proverbial if there were more. I wouldn’t venture an opinion on who to sign as I don’t follow all possibilities closely enough. Dare to dream.

Andy, I was a bit young (9 to be precise) but when Everton signed the original TC (Tony Cottee), was that not a big deal? Wasn't it a record £2.2m fee? Surely, this was the last time we were at the front of the queue signing a quality attacker nearly every team in the league wanted.

Kanchelskis, I was 16 at the time, so much more aware, was also a big deal. Cup winners and back in Europe, we'd signed a player that was arguably world class. Alright, he was deemed surplus to requirements by Ferguson, but that was put down to off the field reasons (Russian mafia stories) than anything else and top sides were envious that we had signed him, though he wasn't coveted by the Champions and the Chelsea / Man City of their day, Blackburn Rovers.

On reflection, I don’t see that Steve F couldn’t be correct in a few more deals being in the offing.
I would be really surprised if they were really high profile ones that would benefit from Carlo being heavily influential as surely he will be fully employed with gelling the current first teamers with the new recruits at Finch Farm from now on.

Not me Si, just repeating Vinny O'Connor from Sky Sports. I haven't a clue. I thought with Covid we'd be making minimal moves, not earth shattering ones!

I like the rumours around Memphis Depay and Zaha. We were lacking speed, width and creativity last season. I wouldn't mind signing both to be honest.

Going off what Patrick was saying about his popularity on social media. The club’s official post about him signing has received over 24k of ‘likes’. His own Facebook message has over 360k and counting. I’ve got quite a few Colombian friends, who mostly follow Madrid or Barca. They’ve already reposted pics of him in his new blue shirt.

I also saw today that the club is planning for their first international office, either in California or South Florida. I’m kicking myself now as I moved from South Florida a couple of years ago. I wonder if Jamie would move down the coast?

I've not felt so thrilled about a signing since we signed Alan Ball on the Monday before the 1966-7 season started.

The difference then was the Ball signing was, in typical Catterick style, completely out of the blue. No blanket wall to wall, 24/7 coverage;I heard it on the 10.30pm Light Programme (radio) news!

Great signing!

Excited!!!

A link to the James Rodriguez interview with Rio Ferdinand earlier in the summer (during lockdown).

That one rumour the other day, of a possible hitch in the contract process regarding image rights, and now considering his huge profile and the potential therein - plus the talk of the club getting into action in the Americas: I just wonder whether the lower playing wages might indicate a new kind of deal.

I agree this compares with signing Lineker (for 800,000). A similar statement of intent. A sign that top players want to pull on that blue shirt once again. Say goodbye to the inferiority complex, we are going toe to toe with those that think they are big boys!

God help me I am walking around the house singing a happy song and smiling like it was 1985.. lol once more I have a spring in my step and hope in my heart, thank you Mr Ancelotti and welcome James, your stage awaits you!

Some corking tweets from fans of other clubs, but I like this one from @kevinSladeSDCC:

"9 months ago, West Ham sacked Manuel Pellegrini and Everton sacked Marco Silva. Look at the difference in ambition in just 9 months. They employed Ancelotti, we employed Moyes. They've signed James Rodriguez, we've changed Bowen's shirt number!"

Loads of Everton fans quoting Rio Ferdinand when he questioned what us Everton fans wanted when we made it clear we would not be happy with David Moyes returning, and pointing out that we wanted Ancelotti, Rodriguez, Allan and Doucoure!

Steve (235) - I saw that tweet, LOL. West Ham actually posted a video announcing Bowen's number switch, as if it were a new signing, or cause for celebration.

Most of the comments were along the lines of "Thanks for rubbing my nose in the fact that the kit I bought my kid last week is now worthless."

No wonder the signing of James took so long – he had to perfect this.

Up The Toffees

Just got in from Ned Kelly's and read all the posts – the excitement is brilliant, reminds me of the day Wayne Rooney scored THAT goal against Arsenal.

I'm so happy with the thread and the absolute joy of our two Yanks, Mike and Jamie – you've both put a big smile on my kipper since I came in. Youse are definitely Scousers, love yis.

Steve @235,

I've been talking and gloating with my West Ham supporting mate today and he's absolutely horrified about his club at the moment. They are in the same situation that we were 15-odd years ago, without a penny to their name.

They had to sell that Grady kid to West Brom just so they have some money to get anyone this window.

I was thinking it's a bit ironic that Moyes left us for the 'big time' but he's basically back to what he started with. I can't imagine what he's thinking seeing us have Ancelotti at the helm and signing James today.

Talking of West Ham, is Yarmolenko a spent force nowadays?

Kristian @ 228,

I might visit, but I'll never, ever live in South Florida! Love my northeastern corner of Florida. I have a lot of family in Fort Lauderdale. They call my Florida, "South Georgia" and I call their Florida, "North Cuba." I'm staying put mate!

Dave Abrahams @238,

If I get over there, you have to promise to take me to Ned Kelly's. Sounds like my kinda of pub. And based upon the happiness I glean from your post, and the time of the post, go to bed! You posted at 12:40 am over there! Tomorrow morning might be a bit slow. 😜

Sleep well and dream of trophies.

I would say so, Si #240.

Two years ago next week, he destroyed us, but that turned out to be the best day of his West Ham career, and he's had two major injuries since. Barely played after the restart and wasn't a factor in their staying up. And he's 31.

He did score for Ukraine the other night.

Dave #238, no higher compliment coming from you, my friend. Thank you.

This is definitely the biggest thing to happen to the club for some time, and in the main the transfers so far this close season seemed to be handled with a great deal of professionalism. That's a good sign.

He's a player who needs to be the star, I hope Carlo build the teams around him. It's a risk because this form of team building is generally outdated. This is a big swing from Moshiri; with financial rules relaxed for one season we might make it happen when others are financially hamstrung. It's now or never.

The season will be built around depth, the squad has to be deep and will face unprecedented levels of physical stress; those with shallow squads will suffer. With that in mind, I expect more incomings and, despite our deadwood perhaps less will leave.

I'm still expecting a right-back and a centre-half, Holgate's injury highlights the chronic need for a pacy replacement. Despite his errors, I'd look to get Zouma back on loan until a long-term replacement is available. He will want to come and he's way down the list at Chelsea.

We need him to be a talisman, and have the best season of his life, so it goes against everything I believe... but we will need to indulge him. I can't wait!

Jamie, I know the feeling. I was across the Alligator Alley and dreaded going over that way.

Patrick McFarlane,

His “up the Toffees” sounds a lot like Arnold Schwarzenegger. Had no clue Austrians and Colombians spoke English similarly badly.

On the plus side, I can't wait to see Eric Dier smash him in half only for James to reform and say “I'll be back”.

I struggle to recall reading a TW thread that has so much joy and absolutely no negative comments at all. It all feels very surreal! Surely someone can drop in a quick "He's past it" or "We've signed another sicknote... yay!" in here just to balance things out a bit! ;-)

At this rate, I'll be smiling all day!

Exciting times indeed. Agree with the need for another centre-back – even if on loan.

Mike @ 60, you are right!

The fee and terms for James are the exact opposite of our approach over the last 4 years. It demonstrates that players want to come to work with Ancelotti. No need to persuade average players to join with massive salaries any more.

Your list of those earning more than or close to the salary for James demonstrates exactly where we can make progress in reducing our costs:

Sigurdsson
Pickford
Walcott
Delph
Bolasie

I wouldn't bat an eyelid if any of these players left and their sale would not noticeably impact the squad if we signed a replacement keeper. (Sorry, I still like Bernard as a player – minority of one!)

Graham Lloyd,

It's just a matter of time before someone says we'd be better off with Adeniran and Baningime.

Graham (#247), you obviously missed Don Alexander's usual anti-Kenwright tirade (#211).

Steve #248, I like him too, very much, but not at £120k/week -- especially not now that he's pretty much guaranteed to be James's deputy at best. I think there's no way he's the 4th midfield starter with the three newcomers.

And as for Pickford, the trouble with "signing a replacement keeper" is that all anyone on TW seems to be able to suggest is various hulking Englishmen with three things in common -- they're tower-sized, they play for lesser clubs, and they have all failed to beat out Pickford for England.

If the replacement is one of a half-dozen exciting young keepers on the Continent, I'm all for it.

Mike - to that I'll add the contingent who keep insisting that we can just go out and get Donnarumma. Then again, who ever thought we'd have James?

Thanks, Terry @250 – I feel some balance has been restored!

Bill @ 252, or Carlo Ancelotti? I read for years on TW that we were dreaming if we could get a top level manager.

Now he's got the players he targeted in the transfer market, time to start making progress with the new squad and WIN something. And by the way, Brands has played a blinder in getting these players in on these terms.

Superb!

Don Carlo had a dream...

Currently at sea right now making our way from The Falklands to Gibraltar. I only just got the good news and what good news it is!! It's put a spring in my step for the day – that's for sure.

To get a player of this quality on the terms mentioned is a great deal. More importantly, it gives great hope for a successful season ahead.

James in, Allan in, let's hope Doucouré soon follows. It's an exciting time for all us long-suffering Evertonians!

Ben post #118. Ball had everything and most of our play seemed to start or finish with him.

James is similar in that he will be expected to be the same type of player although probably less energy and that's where Doucouré will hopefully take over in the final third.

Bit unfair to mention Ball in the same breath. I'd say Peter Reid is the only one to come close.

Il bet the teary one is like the Niagra Falls right now with the thought of these signings and telling everyone who is within earshot he is the mastermind behind it all. Way to go, Bill, way to go!

It was on SSN last night that James is the 7th most followed sportsman on social media in the world. Surely the club's marketing team can tap into that.

Everton's marketing capitalise on a gifted opportunity, Andrew? Let's just be pleased we have the player!!

I'm looking for the positives in everything this week Danny.

Unlucky Lionel Messi, this could have been you!

Raising the bar, that's what these signings do, especially for the good younger players who are already at the club, they hopefully raise the bar.

Imagine Davies now, he's now going to get help if he's good enough to get in the team, no more Schniederlin-hiding, or Iwobi-looking like he doesn't want to be there.

Allan has been described as a bit of a bastard, Rodriguez is a fresh 29-year-old - hopefully, and Doucouré already knows the league and has the engine and the physicality required.

If nothing else, these signings have raised the bar, so no more limbo-dancing at Everton, we have finally got ourselves some proper competitive footballers.

Yes, we, apparently do exist now as a Club with the BBC and SSN reporting our new addition. An interesting stat from the BBC saying that James has 36M Twitter followers worldwide, whereas Everton as a Club, have only 1.7M.

As has been mooted hopefully this will get us noticed more and commercially benefit the Club as a whole!

Looks like Ronaldo in the lead photo. Hope he can find some of that great man's kind of success with Everton.

Andrew, Danny, Everton announced yesterday that they are expanding their commercial operations to both North and South America with a much greater emphasis on the countries where our players come from. We seem to have finally woken up to the benefit of star players and how useful they can be on the commercial front.

Bill Griffiths, #199,

Yes, I'm not sure how many of my Mersey Mystery series you've read, but the most recent release, A Liverpool Lullaby, (book 8 in the series) is doing well on both sides of the pond, and I'm currently working on book 9, The Mersey Ferry Murders which will be followed by the 10th in the series, Under a Mersey Moon.

I'm pleased to say that every book in the series except the latest has been an Amazon bestseller. I'm hoping Lullaby will be joining them soon.

Many thanks for your interest. Have you read them all?

With you Andrew!

According to today’s Echo Everton fans have been sent into ‘a transfer frenzy’ over breaking news that Doucore has ‘liked’ two tweets from our new signing which we have taken to mean something significant about his own transfer to the club - FFS just get it done!

Thanks Brian. Have read 7, will download Lullaby now.
Have really enjoyed reading them, I think they would make a good TV series.
Keep up the good work.

Jay wood 202

Can you post the link

I think Nathan @153 is more on the money.
We have enough midfielders for three teams now.
A car boot sale beckons.

To put all this into some kind of perspective: If you had said one year ago, that Everton would be managed by Carlo Ancelotti and the midfield would be James Rodrigues, Allan and Doucoure, you would have been politely removed by a bunch of men in white coats and placed in a padded cell!!

SF 231. Thanks for the link. That was an amazing interview and what a really nice, knowledgeable fellow with true passion. The next Everton Manager? we could do a lot worse!!
Looking forward to seeing our No10 on the ball and fulfilling his and our ambitions. COYBs

It would be interesting to know Darren Hinds views regarding these signings.

https://twitter.com/EvertonESP/status/1303253546125721602

If Everton are behind this then it is even more evidence that times are changing. Done right this signing will have a significant commercial impact on our club. Our profile has already gone up significantly. It will also make future signing easier.

Bill@275, good point there Bill, he has been conspicuous by his absence these past few threads on our new signings. He may be on a beach somewhere, with his head firmly buried in the sand! :-)

Sorry Darren, couldn't resist the opening for a bit of mirth, unfortunately at your expense in this instance. :-)

I think this signing highlights the difference having Carlo as manager has made. There is no way on Gods earth that James Rodriguez would have signed for us if Ancelotti wasn't the manager. I also think you can add Allans name to a player who wouldnt be here if Ancelotti wasn't the boss. Only time will tell if they turn out to be as successful as we hope they will be, but as a player when you see Rodriguez sitting there it must give you a massive lift. I am sure that Rodriguez will come under huge expectation from fans and media alike, but I don't think Ancelotti has signed him because of what he has done in the past, but what he believes he can give us now.

I am really not into social media but they say he has 19 million more followers on instagram whatever that is than Man Utd, surely that is something the club need to exploit. But its on the pitch that matters and I always felt Ancelotti wasnt here to top up his pension and as he said himself he didn't need the money, and given the clubs he has managed and the salaries he would have earned I believe him.
Because we as a fan base have had so many false dawns over the last 20 years, I can understand the scepticism that some fans will have. But I really believe given a bit of time Ancelotti will turn this club around and will have us winning trophies again.

Finally I think Moshiri deserves huge credit, He has backed all the managers he has appointed he even gave Allardyce £50 million. Despite him seeing hundreds of millions wasted he is still prepared to back Ancelotti to the hilt. I am sure before he signed Ancelotti would have wanted to know how much he would be allowed to spend, and whatever happens then Moshiri has more than done his bit.

Brian, look at my link above to the building in Bogota. You failed to give credit to Brands who has responsibility for negotiating these deals. Just think he has negotiated deals for 3 quality players and the total cost is not much more that Chelsea have just paid for a left back.

My son just sent me a great shot of the Albert Dock illuminated with Rodriquez superimposed on it yesterday evening (presumably).

Apparently buildings in Bogota were lit up blue as well!

Hope we keep buying with this level of expertise and shrewdness for other needed position spec ups. Everton. also need to keep of loading deadwood and surplus to requirement players, which I am sure they are works by on.

Ancelotti reputation has pulling power, something that has been missing at Everton for so long. This has been enhanced further by better negotiating skills, based in knowing what you want and sticking to it.

Moshiri is seeing money been wisely managed for a change.

Here's a link (in Spanish) telling the story of the iconical Colpatria building in Colombia's capital Bogota being lit up in blue with James Everton number 19 superimposed on it, as Mike Benjamin mentions.

k
Bogota Lights Up In Blue

It shows a couple of videos.

Impressive. It's the equivalent of a big name player signing for a London club who then projects the club's colors and player squad number onto Big Ben.

Take a look at this following graph also from Google Trends. This is a tool that shows what are the most searched for topics on Google, at any time, anywhere.

Since yesterday, Everton FC is Google's most searched for term in Colombia.

As the 12 month graph shows, back in December there was interest (Mina's goals in the win at Watford? Rumours that Ancelotti might go for James in the January window?), then Everton flatlines until recent weeks when James to Everton rumours circulate again.

Everton #1 Trending Search Term in Colombia

Yesterday, it went through the roof.

This is BIG news down Latin America way.

The red echo is trying to sign readers to a newsletter,
It includes a pic of the Liver building lit up red!
Time we light it up blue permanently

Having looked at my phone all day yesterday I finally gave up and had to to out for the evening to celebrate my stepdaughters birthday.
So there we are in the restaurant and the news comes through on my email and I scream “Yessss “ at the top of my voice which shocked a few of the diners around us and so my wife and stepdaughter who are from Medellin Colombia knew straight away what was going on at which point my stepdaughter screams “ No Way “ me and my wife look at her and say what what ??
He has been given the No.19 shirt and guess how many years my stepdaughter was celebrating yesterday... she couldn’t wipe the smile off her face all night :-)

Mike 279

The reason I didnt mention Brands is, I don't know what part he played in these transfers, but what I do know is that both Rodriguez and Allan both said they were here because of Carlo Ancelotti, neither mentioned Brands. Now maybe Brands negotiated the fee and the salaries and if he did he seems to have got both players at the right price.

Hoping one of the upshots of all this is that we get a proper Everton TV, now we have unlimited potential subscribers in America and S. America, not to mention the rest of the World.

Most Clubs have a much better Media set-up than we have, and every hitherto pre-season that I have 'signed up and paid' to watch games, I can't recall there ever being no technical difficulties.

Okay sometimes it is down to the hosting Club's apparatus, or the provider that Everton have used but mostly it is a very amateurish effort from the Club.

Wake up we are now in the real world, and have a couple of World Class players, one of whom has 36M followers on Twitter alone, get the thing operational and functional Everton, I promise you won't regret it!

According to some outlets including ToffeeTV Doucoure has signed and all paperwork has been cleared - just awaiting the club to unveil him.

Patrick@287, " just awaiting the club to unveil him ".

I take it then he arrived under cover! :-)

Derek (286), indeed. His first interview trending on Youtube with 100,000 views already. Probably beats any previous signing's interview by 99,000.

Derek, our commercial operation has always been pathetically weak. I hope it starts to change but I won’t be holding me breath.

Agree on the Media set-up. An absolute priority to improve this, whilst understanding that the costs and input to do it properly are considerable.

Time to look professional and serious.

On the subject of our media offerings, I noticed that live matchday commentaries is one of the benefits of the membership scheme this year. Does that mean that the website commentary will no longer be broadcast free-of-charge?

Anyone know if there is a ‘Colombian magnate of sorts’ that might wanna finance a stadium in the near future?

Bobby Mallon @ 271.

Link as requested:

Bradykinin & CV-19

Craig@292, I can't get to most matches for varying reasons, but I console myself and indeed look forward to Live Matches, by way of the Live Forum, not for the squeamish, I must interject.

I also watch via Mag/Satellite/IPTV (paid for) usually from US sources or Bein Sport, however the downside is that, because of transmission delays and it being via Satellite there can be a delay of up to and over a minute at times.

If, it happens to be on Sky and those others who are on the Live Forum, get their stream before I do so there can be a 'spoiler or two' if there is a goal scored which hasn't happened on mine, for a minute or so.

Apart from that it's good fun, and a chance to ' meet up with many familiar names ' some, who I have met through ToffeeWeb Get Togethers' which I also recommend should they happen again!

John@293, I would think there probably is, but being in a Columbian jail could hamper any personal involvement, the others probably haven't been caught yet! :-)

1, 2, 3 and still more being mentioned.
Does anyone get the feeling that there are some Russian Roubles or Columbian Cartel monies involved?

I remember James Rodriguez as being a outstanding player in the World Cup. Knew then he would end up at Top European Club, probably Portuguese or Spainish. His record playing for Porto, Monaco, Bayien Munich / Real Madrid shows him to be up there with the best.

He seems to have been out favour with Zadane. He clearly has identified Ancelotti as the right mentor , prepared to take reduced wages to play under him. I hadn't quite realised the high expectations around Rodriguez , clearly a lot of people expect this pairing as being a way for him to reach the unclaimed heights of his promise.

This is a player who will have outstanding talent and total commitment.

As for Evertons Commercial Department, I agree don't hold your breath.

Very funny tweet from Men In Blazers over here, and I paraphrase:

James’ life-long dream of wearing a Hummel jersey realized.

His signing doesn’t fit the footballing world’s narrative of Everton. I love it. Time to shake up the football power structure.

Derek, James Rodriguez has 96m followers on Instagram. Yes that’s 96,000,000. It’s the 6th most of any sportsman of any sport in the world. It’s 44m than Man Utd and more than any club.

Brian Harrison, it’s the Director of Football’s primary job to negotiate these deals. If Brands hasn’t done it, and certainly Ancelotti hasn’t done it, then who do you think has? kenwright?

Bill (229), yes the Alan Ball signing had me dancing all over the kitchen, good job my wife already knew I was mad, but Alan was the final part of the jigsaw, he joined a really good squad of players.

These three signings are joining a very poor squad, although there are a few promising ones there or coming through.

How did you feel Bill, when Bobby Collins came to Everton in 1958, an Everton down and nearly out, I couldn’t believe that Bobby had decided to join us. He dragged us up off the canvas and urged and shouted us into a team that started fighting. Then with the help of some signings by Carey and Catterick made us the best team in the land, only to be sold before he could get his hand on the championship medal.

Can these three signings, aided and abetted by a couple more take us to the top of the ladder?

Dave, where does James Rodriguez feature in your list of the biggest (not best) signings Everton have ever made?

Steve (302), well Steve I can’t think of any player who has caused more optimism, outpouring of joy, even belief that we are on the way back than this lad, James has raised the spirit, got us puffing our chests out,causing us to wish Sunday was already here, without kicking a ball.

Bobby Collins became, for me, the best signing we ever made, but doubt, very much, he caused the sensationally feelings that James has aroused.

See what you’ve done James, you’ve turned an old man into a seventeen year old kid again.

You’re a bleedin’ magician.

Tony Cottee at the time was a record transfer so that was probably the biggest per se though it didn’t work out. But in the internet age James is the highest profile and potentially the best player I have seen us sign

I think the announcement that Villa have just agreed a £33M fee for a Brentford striker demonstrates what good business we've done here.

Personally lads I lost my shit when signed Abel Xavier

There have been many "Wow" moments for me including Tony Kay, Howard Kendall, Alan Ball, Fred Pickering, Bob Latchford, Gary Lineker, Tony Cottee, Kanchelskis but I think the fact we are on the floor and we are signing 3 top players including 2 that are IMO world class and that makes it a more impressive "Wow" moment.

Steve Ferns, only this morning have I had time to watch the James interview with Rio Ferdinand you put up last night.

I'm glad I did. I would strongly recommend it for all to see.

I'll repeat the link here:

James Interview with Rio

I am seriously hard pushed to recall as good an interview of a footballer about his development, his attitude towards football, his drive and ambition, his single-mindedness at every age in knowing what he wanted to achieve and the best way to go about it, his philosophy, even.

I was also seriously surprised how good an interviewer Rio Ferdinand was.

We have recruited a very, very serious player. And I don't mean footballer. I mean person.

Watch it.

Colin #284, what a great story. Thanks for sharing that and Mazel Tov to your Colombiana stepdaughter for a memorable 19th birthday!

DK #286, amen, brother! But as somebody mentioned above, now it's in the hands of Everton's marketing team, which I consider fantastic news, because it's the first time I've ever heard that Everton actually has a marketing team.

Dave #303, that made me smile from ear to ear.

John #306, that made me fall off my chair.

Brian #267, I'm adding you to my author's list on Amazon. Are your mysteries purely intellectual or is there sufficient sex and violence for weirdos like me? (Full disclosure: I'm a big Lee Child fan.) I particularly like the title Last Train to Lime Street, since I've actually been on it!

Just anecdotal, but still.

Getting my house repainted. The whole crew's first language is clearly Spanish.

So I asked one fellow if he was a soccer fan. He says, "Not really, I played baseball."

I said my soccer Team in England had signed James Rodriquez. Instantly, he asks, "The Colombian?"

Even he knew who James was.

Derek (295)

The live forum, "not for the squeamish"?

It is the home of interpersonal rectitude. I can't wait for its return.

James, I'm friends with the Mexican gardening crew that works my neighborhood. They like me because I wear my old Universitario de Guadalajara shirt when they're around, and they know I'm an Everton supporter but know little about the club. Now they know more. When I went past on Friday they waved and whistled and yelled "James! James!"

Brian (267). I am amazed that I have not come across any of your mystery novels previously since I am forever scouring Amazon and Apple Books for "new" authors in the genre, that I have not previously discovered.

Reading between the lines here, it seems that there are a series of novels you have written and I always like to read an author's works in chronological order.

however, having scanned various sites, I have found reference to a number of your books (and to you), but none seems to offer a chronological bibliography.

Can you point me in the right direction please, as I would like to get started on your works?

Danny @ 305. It's been frustrating but I think Brands has delivered Ancelotti's wishes at pretty good value. Allan especially. I thought we might get Rodriguez for a lower fee given their desperation to offload his wages. However, in context it's a good fee. If it's also £20m of thereabouts for Doucoure (assume he's still coming) then its a relatively modest outlay for 3 players of experience. Desperately hope Rodriguez can stay fit.

Hugh(#313), I have read the first 7 of Brian's Mersey Murders series and have just downloaded the 8th and have enjoyed reading them all to date.
In order they are,
1. A Mersey Killing
2. All Saints
3. A Mersey Maiden
4. A Mersey Mariner
5. A Very Mersey Murder
6. Last Train to Lime Street
7. The Mersey Monastery Murder
8. A Mersey Lullaby.

Hope you enjoy them as much as I have.

A few rumors we might be interested in the keeper Cillessen, that would be over the top! I’d be getting very excited if that happened. Extremely solid, experienced player, and calm just what we need in this transitional phase.

BBC say the reported James fee of £20mill was actually £12mill.

Brief footage of training at Finch Farm today, with both Allan and James taking part. Allan thumps in a goal and James scores with a scissor kick.

Allan & James in Training

Tomori coming on a season's loan.

Jay, he scored a scissor kick and the camera pans back. Simms has an admiring smile, Beni has his hands to his face in disbelief, Gylfi looks angry, Bolasie looks in awe, Mina smiles, and a Doucouré shaped figure looks on in the distance out of focus.

In the longer version of the clip, he audaciously chips Harry Tyrer, scores another beauty off the post, does a few flicks and looks ever so sharp. He's in a condition that most of us would hold up as physical perfection.

If he can only be lucky with injuries then who knows where he can take us. Forget who wears the armband, this will be James Rodriguez's team.

Brian Porter, wow! 10 books... amazing. I've just recently self-published my first book on Amazon called The Good (by Carl Andrew) under a pseudonym. Any tips?

Back to Everton, If Tomori and Cilleson follow Doucouré, James and Allan... I've got to say, that's a good window.

Pete @ 317. Where does the £12M come from? Transfermarkt report €25M which is £20M or thereabouts.

Steve (or anyone).

I saw some images earlier of James image being projected on city buildings last night, including Goodison Park itself.

Did that happen, does anybody know, or was that someone just having fun with Photoshop?

Jay, never went into town myself, but it’s endorsed on all Everton social media. It must have happened.

Jay,

It was also in the red Echo. Very impressive, mate.

Whatever happened to the fella from Watford?

Alan, Rob Halligan says he'll be announced at 20:07 this evening.

Jay #324. Oh it happened mate!

Alan, I expect an announcement later. On the training videos, there was a Doucouré shaped figure who was out of focus and crept onto screen a couple of times. Sure, it could just be Bolasie or Adeniran or someone. However, James trained before the announcement so maybe Doucouré has trained because the announcement is to be made a bit later.

Just wait for the “Lucas knows” tweet from the official twitter and it'll be confirmed.

Robert @323,

It's on the BBC transfers done. They seemed pretty sure...

Well, with all the deserved hoopla and congratulations on the signing of James, there is one company who can't believe their good fortune, and they are the shirt sponsors, Cazoo!

I wonder if the terms can be renegotiated.

Brian # 328 and Colin # 330. I'm saying nothing in fear of upsetting one of two people!! 😁😁

Steve, another thing that impressed me about James was his conditioning. The gym photos were no lie. The guy is cut and carved. Clearly fitness is no issue.

One thing, that is me looking too much into things, but I'll mention anyway, is the identity of James's agent: Kia Joorabchian.

Kia is Iranian, like our owner, and a friend of his. Remember when Vitor Pereira was heavily linked to take the manager's job before Carlo Ancelotti? Only to then land a bumper new deal with his Chinese employers that put him as one of the top 5 earners in world football management? Counter rumours afterwards was that he was never in the frame and we allowed ourselves to be used by the agent as a negotiating tactic. Did this have any impact on the James Rodriguez transfer?

Also, the three new signings all belong to Kia Joorabchian or Jorge Mendes as does a raft of our other recent signings, like Andre Gomes. Jorge Mendes was also involved in the James transfer as well. He's playing a bigger role in Everton transfers.

Jay #341.

With regard to Messi, Rob Halligan's got the lowdown.

If both Allan and James play Sunday, Allan best keep Lo Celso away from him. He kicked the shit out of us in our last game there.

Allan should play. Dunno if it’s too soon for James. I think not going off the training photos, and agree with Mike on his physique.

Carlo didn’t hesitate when asked if Allan could play.

I picked up on the Kia Joorabchian connection also Steve. In fact, he spoke to TalkSport about the transfer today and the 'Ancelotti Factor'. Listen and watch here.

Kia Joorabchian on James

James is still part of super-agent Jorge Mendes's stable.

Nice to know he is willing to work with other Premier League clubs and not just Wolves!

Bill (315)

Many thanks.

Brian @ 344, I'd trust everything Rob says.

Fancy going halves on a time-share in the Cayman Islands he persuaded me to invest in..?

Jay, will you put my half in mate and I'll see you straight when I get my glasses. 🤓

Such good news. Unfortunately we have an evacuation alert due to fires coming our way in Eugene, Oregon, USA. Might not be able to keep up with the exciting news for a few days. Got my own bit of excitement to deal with. Keeping an eye out for the locusts. COYB.

FFS Keith, have some patience. 😁😁😁

Timori, keeper, right back and Cf. I'd also swop Bolasie, Tosun, Besic and Walcott for Zaha.

Stevie Wonder or Ray Charles would do for the nets to replace Picktheballoutthenet, and we are challengers.

Bang on with your predictions again, Rob. Krikkit going slow without Jos.

We should start negotiating with Messi now for when he's a free agent next summer. At our current rate, if he has a medical this week, he will join us in June 2021.

Albert @342, good luck with that mate, hope everything goes well for you.

Sorry, Albert, in the excitement I missed the gist of your post. Stay safe.

Jay#308, thank you very much for providing the link to the Rio Ferdinand/James interview on YouTube (I missed Steve’s initial reference to it). I recommend it to everyone.

He seems a very intelligent, thoughtful lad. “The game has become monotonous- there needs to be more fun”. “The number 10 needs to control everything”. “Pass and go, pass and go”. He clearly loves Ancelotti. He knows his own worth, he knows his own skills. It’s a very lucid interview, with a hint at times that he may have overcome a speech impediment - if so, it demonstrates another strong element to him.

The joy of being an Evertonian. I’ve gone from deep disillusion with our performances, VAR, our wasted money, to excitement with our signings (especially James) to utter frustration at not being able to be at Goodison to watch us play.

James has 46 million social media followers to our 1.8 million we’ll recover his fee and wages in no time!

Peter @ 349.

It's a very impressive interview, isn't it?

A very aware, intelligent and mature young man. Self-confident without being brash. A deep thinker of the game and, dare I say, a romantic still in love with 'the beautiful game' as demonstrated by some of the quotes you share.

He gives the impression that he is very hungry to play after sitting out so many games in the last two seasons.

I also like how he says he revels in pressure and responsiblity, in being the main man.

Like you Peter I also wondered if he has overcome a speech impediment. He has a noticeable stutter at time.

If he is as fit to play as he looks fit and ripped in the gym, we could have a lot of fun this year.

It would be even better with match going fans roaring the team on.

Albert @342. My daughter lives in Portland, Oregon. Mentioned your post from Eugene and she mentioned it is in a very dry area and subject to fire danger.

Stay safe.

According to TransferMarket:

Update, September 9, 11:01 BST: Contrary to previous media reports, the midfielder is joining Everton on a free transfer. According to information acquired by Transfermarkt, Real only secured themselves a sell-on clause, which would earn them a percentage of the Colombian’s next transfer fee. The percentage is understood to be in the lower and conventional range.

Free?

This just keeps getting more astonishing....

Just saw that Patrick. Amazing. So they've let him go for free to shed the colossal wage bill at Real. Even better deal for us?

On a lighter note,

Were going to need some new songs for our new three amigos,

Hames could always have Jimmy Jimmy ohhh (undertones)

Any suggestions??

Hopefully, if true, this turns out to be the best free transfer in the history of football.

Them shysters might sniff and turn their nose up at our Colombian (I know) but, with one or two more key positions and a different mindset, we will at least be competing in the big matches and causing upsets to Sky's chosen few.

Jay, you have alluded to an article on Covid-19, the link to which you have posted somewhere on TW. I am unable to find it, so with the editors' kind permission, would request you to repost it please.

Ajay I found this on this thread
Jay Wood
[BRZ]
294 Posted 08/09/2020 at 13:16:16
Flag this comment.
Bobby Mallon @ 271.

Link as requested:

Bradykinin & CV-19

Thanks Patric and Jay, much appreciated.

Mike (312) - "When I went past on Friday they waved and whistled and yelled "James! James!""

Sorry about that. I stiffed them on a job they did for me. Been hunting me down since. Pretend you don't know me.

Thinking about our lamentations over the years regarding the Club not exploiting our Timmy and Landon playing for Everton. A little story, I think you, Jamie, and other Americans in here might get a kick out of it.

5 years ago, living in Springfield VA, several miles south of DC in Northern VA. My wife and I go to the mall on a Tuesday about 10 AM. The Springfield Mall, a popular one, is an old school Mall; indoors covering acres of land. Few people in there at that hour on a Tuesday.

We're done shopping and while walking towards the exit, in front of us in the middle of the mall walkway is a fellow setting up his big wooden wagon filled with soccer jerseys.

My wife has seen me look for Everton gear in stores over the years, so as we approach this guy and his wagon conversation goes:

Wife: Hey look, maybe he has an Everton jersey.

Me: No he doesn't.

Wife: You can ask.

Me: Nah.

We're passing the wagon at this point (usual clubs shirts hanging featured: RM, Barca, ManU). The fellow there hears us talking.

Him: What team?

Wife: Tell him.

Me: Nah, you don't sell it. [Disclaimer: I only started to wave him off because I didn't want to suffer yet another blank stare when I said "Everton" while shopping for a shirt.]

Him: Nonono, what team?

Me: Everton.

Him: Everton, yes, yes.

Wife: Silent. Just that look and smirk when the wife knows better than her husband.

His big wooden wagon has the skirts hanging off it to hide the boxes of his other shirts. Two stacks of boxes. He lifts off the top box and (sorry) has to DIG INTO the bottom box. He pulls out a legit Everton shirt, the #29 shirt of that Everton legend, fucking Mo Besic.

Wife: Ha! See.

Me: Nonplussed.

Him: Only $45.

My grandson wears it.

James will be accompanying Carlo at USMFF at 16:30 today for the weekend presser.

Exciting times.

So the rumours were true then, we got James for free? What a great deal!

Just reading the same on transfermarkt website (in German) saying the club confirmed that James was a freebie??
wow.. If its true.. Website is generally pretty reliable.

Does he have a buy-back clause, Kevin? No matter, it’s still a great deal.

According to the website there is a sell on clause.. i. e. RM get a sell on percentage.. Mad stuff. And to think that Bayern paid RM €13m to just take him on loan :)

The guy who tweeted this picture says that they are on sale in Colombia - not sure if they are part of a Premier League collection of all 20 clubs or a one-off to signify Everton signing James. There were also pictures of the same brand cans from Brazil but apparently they were photoshop only and not real.

Colombian Everton Cans