Ronald Koeman needs to deliver results at Everton, says Mario Melchiot

Ronald Koeman must take Everton 'to the next level' according to former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot.

Everton are set to confirm the appointment of Koeman as their new manager after agreeing a compensation deal with Southampton for his services.

An official announcement is expected once the finer details of the Dutchman's contract have been sorted out.

Koeman is on holiday but is keen to come to Everton after being promised a big transfer budget and having been sold on the ambition of the club, which includes a move away from Goodison Park.

Before succeeding Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton in 2014, the Dutchman had won three titles as manager in the Eredivisie, two of them with Melchiot's former club Ajax.

Everton performed below expectations last season, finishing the campaign in 11th place which led to the dismissal of manager Roberto Martinez.

Melchiot spent the first three years of his professional career at Ajax and he believes Koeman will have to deliver results from day one at Goodison Park.

"They've got to push for a higher league position because next to Liverpool they will always be there competing," he told Sky Sports Now.

"If Everton want to compete, they've got to deliver now so that's why they probably make that move to bring in somebody who can make that step, and go to the next level.

"Everton could aim to be playing in Europe. Maybe the title is a big shout, but when you play you want to win the best."

The former Chelsea and Wigan full-back also credited the work of his compatriot Koeman at St Mary's and what he was able to achieve having been in charge for just two full seasons.

Melchiot added: "When he came to England he was kind of a big deal because Southampton were losing a lot of players. 

"Considering half of his team left, he just had to anticipate changes really fast. He did a really good job."