Ramon Planes being lined up to replace Marcel Brands at Everton
Everton have been in contact with the former Barcelona technical secretary Ramon Planes about replacing Marcel Brands, report AS in Spain.
The Spanish executive has previous experience as a director of football and is reportedly interesting a number of clubs including Newcastle and Valencia.
Brands exited Goodison in December and according to the report, as quoted in Sport Witness, Rafael Benitez has “taken the responsibility” since but “could count on Planes’ support” if the Spaniard arrives on Merseyside.
Positive appointment?
Planes is credited with a key role in bringing young stars such as Pedri and Gavi into the team at the Camp Nou and such an eye for talent would undoubtedly excite Everton fans if he takes a role at the club.
And, in contrast to most other aspects of what the manager brings, the apparently support Planes would offer Benitez could work as a positive influence on the chances of a move taking place.
But with the ex-Liverpool boss still extremely unpopular and results not good this season it remains to be seen how long he remains in charge.
If the report is accurate in attributing interest in appointing Planes to multiple clubs in Europe then the Toffees would face tough competition.
As one of those clubs is reported to be newly-rich Newcastle the opportunity to wield what is thought to be largest cheque-book in world football, if the Magpies avoid relegation, could be a chance that would be too interesting to overlook.
Planes is believed to have asked to leave his contract at Barcelona early so as not to interfere with the new regime under former midfielder Xavi.
In other Everton news, this first team star has opened up on the departure of Carlo Ancelotti.