Everton are a club used to being pushed around in the transfer window, but they’re making sure this summer that that’s no longer the case.
Several of the Toffees’ star men are in demand, with Chelsea pursuing Romelu Lukaku and Manchester City bidding for John Stones.
The Blues have named their prices: £75million for Lukaku, £50million for Stones, and not a penny less for either, as per Sky Sports.
Even for Chelsea and City, that is big money, and while both clubs have been fairly persistent in their respective pursuits of the players, they have made it clear they won’t necessarily give in to Everton’s demands.
Ronald Koeman must have mixed feelings. Lukaku and Stones can both be assets to his side this coming season, and the club are leaving it late to reinvest the money in the squad if they do decide to sell.
Most importantly, however, both have made it clear they want to leave. Lukaku, in particular, is known to be temperamental and while Koeman is known for being a strong manager when it comes to player power, this is one unhappy striker he doesn’t want on his hands.
The more mild-mannered Stones should be less of an issue, but he looked disinterested last year at the club.
Everton have the right to play hardball as long as the players are under contract, but can they afford another season with a group of disaffected stars who don’t want to be there?
For the first time in a long time, the Toffees have a chance to build something. And yet, it’s difficult to see that happening without the entire squad on board the project.
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