Moyes: I tried for Owen
David Moyes has admitted that he failed in a summer move for Michael Owen.
Everton manager David Moyes has admitted that he tried and failed in a summer move for Real Madrid's unsettled striker Michael Owen.
Moyes also revealed that he was rebuffed in a £10 million move for Feyenoord's Dirk Kuyt, but believes that those ambitious transfer forays underline The Toffees' desire to compete at the highest level.
He told the club's official website: "We have been in contact with Owen and his advisors.
"Michael doesn't see Everton at this moment as being what he would choose but I am reassuring Everton supporters that we are in for big names."
He added: "We offered £10 million for Kuyt on August 1 which was rejected by Feyenoord.
"It is just to make people realise we are in for what we consider to be the top players.
"We have money to spend if the right players are available."
Moyes acknowledged the size of the task facing his Everton side as they look to overcome Villarreal in their UEFA Champions League qualifier on Wednesday.
Villarreal claim a 2-1 lead going into the second leg but Moyes feels there were positives signs in the sides' first meeting.
He told Sky Sports News: "We know it will be tough after losing the first game but we did put them under a lot of pressure.
"Things didn't quite go for us so we know that we have to score two goals to give us any chance at all."
The former Preston manager also highlighted the importance of facing strong European opposition, as he and his team seek to bolster their footballing education.
"It is a competition I hope to be involved in for a long time to come.
"It is a new experience for me as a manager and it is hopefully something that I can learn from.
"I think it will improve Everton - we've got some terrific players like Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta and Joseph Yobo who I'm sure will be playing in Europe for years to come."
