With the transfer window now over, it’s safe to say Rafa Benitez was not backed as heavily as some of his predecessors have been.
The Spaniard was handed just £1.7m to sign Demarai Gray, while Andros Townsend arrived on a free transfer from Crystal Palace.
However, another player was heading for Merseyside too – Luuk Kluiters.
What’s the story?
Well, as the 18-year-old revealed on Instagram, he had actually agreed a deal to join Everton a couple of weeks ago.
You can see the teenager’s post below.
Sadly, the Dutchman could not complete his move to the Premier League, as he was unable to obtain a work permit under the current regulations.
As the Liverpool Echo revealed, Kluiters actually trained at Finch Farm and was offered a trial, which he clearly impressed in seeing as a deal was agreed.
Can Everton try to sign Luuk Kluiters in January?
In our view, it doesn’t seem as if Everton and Kluiters will cross paths again anytime soon.
Why? Well, in the defender’s Instagram post explaining what happened, he also announced that he’d joined LOSC Lille.
Having said that, his move to France could work in Everton’s favour.
By gaining more experience in Ligue 1, Kluiters will slowly become more eligible for a work permit as he builds his career up from nothing.
It might take a while, but perhaps Everton’s groundwork laid down this summer will help them to sign the prodigy in years to come.
That could, however, cost the Toffees a lot if Kluiters goes on to become a star with LOSC Lille.
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