Thursday 11 August 2016 17:16, UK
Ronald Koeman wants to keep striker Romelu Lukaku at Everton and says he is still hoping to add three or four new faces before the transfer window closes.
The 23-year-old forward, who managed 18 league goals and six assists last season, has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park, having voiced his desire to play Champions League football towards the end of last season.
Koeman has already watched one of his prized assets in John Stones depart for Manchester City and he has no intention of losing another.
The Dutchman said: "I don't comment on rumours. We have discussions with the board and with Steve Walsh, and we want three or four more players.
"Romelu Lukaku is still an Everton player and we want to keep our best players.
"Lukaku is doubtful [on Saturday] because of the cut from the Espanyol game, [Seamus] Coleman also has a problem as well."
Koeman also quashed speculation Phil Jagielka could leave in the wake of Ashley Williams' arrival from Swansea, saying the Everton club captain remains an important part of his plans.
"We had to get a new defender and Ashley brings experience, leadership and he knows the Premier League," Koeman said.
"Phil Jagielka is the captain of the team. We don't have too many centre-backs. We need four so there is no way he can leave the club."
Two of the targets Koeman is pursuing are Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasie and Sunderland centre-back Lamine Kone.
Everton have agreed a deal with Palace for Bolasie for a fee that could rise to £30m, according to Sky sources.
We also understand that the Toffees placed a bid of £18m for Kone more than a week ago but Koeman refused to be drawn on where things stand with either player.
"I don't talk about rumours, players who are still in contracts with other teams," Koeman said.
"I speak about players who have signed a contract to Everton and when everything is done but not about rumours. I don't like that from other managers and I don't do that."
Koeman also confirmed Williams will not be considered for this weekend's Premier League opener against Tottenham but does expect him to be available for the Toffees' game against West Brom a week later.
Koeman said: "Last week all the business between Swansea and Everton he did not really take part in training sessions with the team and I hope he can be ready after 10 days of training for next weekend."
