Everton are said to be chasing Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman as they step up their pursuit of finding a suitable successor to veteran Gareth Barry, according to the Mirror.
The Dutch centre-midfielder was banded about in the summer, with a possibility of the Toffees making a move for him as Ronald Koeman looks to revamp the underperforming squad of predecessor Roberto Martinez.
However, a move failed to materialise and Idrissa Gueye remained the sole midfielder brought into the club. With 18 months left on Strootman’s contract, Koeman is reportedly monitoring the player to see how he returns from injury before committing to a move, which could cost a hefty chunk of the clubs winter budget.
Louis Van Gaal was said to be keen on bringing the Dutchman to Manchester United during his short reign, but due to injury, the move was called off.
Strootman, 26, has been plagued with injuries during his time at Roma having moved from PSV in 2013, two serious knee injuries severely limiting the Dutchman’s playing time in Rome.
That hasn’t deterred Koeman, however, who will have prior knowledge of the midfielder from his time at PSV as well as with the Dutch national team.
As a result, we could see Strootman join his fellow countryman in due course.
