Marcel Brands told NOS that Everton tried to sign Manchester United star Donny van de Beek on loan in the summer – and could move in January.
Van de Beek, 24, is struggling for game time at Manchester United. The Netherlands international has done so ever since moving to Old Trafford.
In a season and a bit, he has played 39 times for United. Only 17 have been from the start, and only four of those 17 have been Premier League starts.
This season, it is getting worse. The midfielder has managed just 141 minutes in all competitions for United – 90 coming in the Carabao Cup.
Everton sporting director Brands, who obviously has strong Dutch connections, says he tried to sign van de Beek from Manchester United.
“We had him on our list,” Brands said. “At the beginning of the transfer window, we enquired at United, then it was impossible.
“At the end of the window, I received a call from Guido Albers, his agent, that he might be rented out after all. But at the last minute it was cancelled.
Asked about a January move: “It is early October, so much can still happen with injuries. United are playing on various fronts, it’s hard to say now.”
Manchester United is not the place for van de Beek. Unfortunately, he does not have that elite-tier personality or ego to be a success at Old Trafford.
He needs to join a side where he is given the faith as first-choice. If he is cover, he will not reach the level which he performed at in Ajax colours.
Van de Beek needs confidence in his ability and the trust from a manager that will play him week in, week out. Everton can do that.
The Toffees have the foundations of a brilliant side. Allan sitting deep, Aboulaye Doucoure in stunning form. Wingers, and a striker.
Demarai Gray or Andros Townsend, and Richarlison either side of Dom Calvert-Lewin. Allan, Doucoure and van de Beek in midfield – perfect.
