It was news that sent shockwaves across the blogosphere, not because of the player that had been signed, but rather where the team in question rummaged £7m together to sign the star. I’m referring, of course, to Everton’s new signing Leroy Fer.
The young Dutchman is set to move to Goodison Park after the Toffees agreed to pay FC Twente £7m for his services. “Which great aunt died and left Everton £7m in her will?” pondered many a supporter over Twitter, with the Merseysiders seemingly unable to splash out on players unless they sell first.
Either way, the signing of Fer – nicknamed ‘The Bouncer’ due to his strength – is an astute signing for the club. At just 23-years-old, the player himself will only improve as a player the more he matures, while providing the necessary steal for Everton in the middle of the park.
Furthermore, and perhaps most importantly, it means Marouane Fellaini won’t be forced into midfield should injuries look to derail Everton’s season. The Belgian has been in superb form for the Toffees this year after being pushed further up the pitch to support Nikica Jelavic.
However, with a number of players condemned the sidelines, Fellaini was often repositioned back in the middle of the park, much to the disappointment of many a fan. Yet, with Fer now available to manager David Moyes, the Toffees can now continue their pursuit to secure a place in the top four.