Ex-coach ‘not surprised’ at Everton interest in Nikita Haikin, ‘he’s capable of playing at Premier League level’
Everton are keen to pick up free agent Nikita Haikin in January according to The Telegraph – a move that doesn’t surprise the goalkeeper’s former coach.
With the World Cup break now upon us, the Toffees have turned their attention to the January transfer window and strengthening Frank Lampard’s side.
With Asmir Begovic in the final year of his contract, Everton have identified the goalkeeper position as one that needs to be addressed over the winter.
The Telegraph report that Everton are keen to sign Haikin as a free agent once his Bodo/Glimt contract expires on 31 December. He’d likely play second fiddle to Jordan Pickford, and provide some competition for the England shot-stopper.
When the news broke, Haikin’s childhood coach Yury Syomin commented on the move and claimed he was “not surprised” that the 27-year-old was attracting top clubs.
Speaking to Soccer.ru, the former Russia manager said: “I’m not surprised by Everton’s interest in Nikita Khaikin. Throughout this period, Nikita has been playing at a high level, in many international matches he showed a high class and played very well throughout this time at Bodø-Glimt.
“At the same time, he won two trophies and two silvers in four years – this is a high result. I think Haikin is capable of playing at Premier League level.”
No risk transfer
Should Everton choose to pick up Haikin when his contract expires, he’ll arrive at Goodison Park with no pressure. He won’t be expected to usurp Pickford in the starting lineup, but it’ll be his target regardless.
His job will just be to apply pressure on Pickford and make sure he doesn’t ever get complacent. Lampard will likely rely on Haikin in cup matches similar to how Begovic was utilised.
His record in Norway is incredible after winning back-to-back league titles – he’ll arrive in Merseyside full of confidence.
On top of that, it’s not as if the club have paid any fees for him. If he shines and Everton manage to sell him on for a fee, it’s a bonus.
By addressing the goalkeeping situation with a shrewd free signing, hopefully it frees up the January budget to be spent elsewhere. With the Toffees lurking down near the relegation zone once again, reinforcements will be a welcome boost for the squad ahead of a busy spring schedule.