Ronald Koeman admitted that he was interested in bringing the winger to Everton, only for the Dutchman to move to Lyon instead.
Director of Football Steve Walsh has admitted to the club’s official website that Everton’s recruitment policy is based as much on a player’s character as his quality.
The veteran was headhunted by Goodison Park chiefs in the summer after his signings, notably N’Golo Kante, Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy, inspired Leicester City to the Premier League title in the most remarkable circumstances last season.
However, although Morgan Schneiderlin, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Ademola Lookman (below), appear increasingly astute additions, a number of reported deals failed to come to fruition despite Walsh’s influence behind the scenes.
And the esteemed talent-spotter has now shed some light on the process by which Everton decide on targets.
“Character is very important and you can find out a lot about players when you are watching them on the pitch,” Walsh told the club’s official website.
Tough love? Ronald Koeman’s quotes suggest he could help Everton starlet realise his potential
“Are they prepared to roll up their sleeves and put a shift in for the team? Do they get back into the team shape and know their defensive responsibilities as well as their attacking prowess?
“Then obviously you do your homework, you ring people who have worked with them before, and I speak to players who have played with them before, especially if they’re experienced players and I trust their judgement. Basically, I try to find out as much about them as I can.”
And it is tempting to believe that character rather than quality may have been the reason why Memphis Depay was not snapped posing in Everton blue in January.
The Express reported recently that perceived concerns about the Dutchman’s attitude and his work rate had made Ronald Koeman, who had previously expressed a desire to sign the Manchester United outcast, think twice.
2/10 performance by former target suggests Everton should breathe sigh of relief
And Walsh’s claims only appear to back up that suggestion.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
