With Rafa Benitez’s arrival at Everton on the verge of completion, the Spaniard can begin thinking about how he can strengthen this squad for an assault on the top six.

It will be no easy task for a club that has fallen short of qualifying for Europe. Not since the days of Roberto Martinez have they managed to come anywhere close to ending up in the top four.

What’s the word?

With Robin Olsen heading back to Roma after the conclusion of his loan spell, it might be argued by the Everton hierarchy that they need to bring in a goalkeeper.

According to Football Insider, that could well be Sergio Romero.

The Manchester United stopper is out of contract tomorrow and thus, can be acquired on a free transfer by any willing suitor.

The report states that the Toffees have offered him a lucrative contract in order to move to Merseyside this summer.

Everton tried to sign the 96-cap Argentine on loan last summer and have now renewed their interest.

Rafa’s first mistake

At first glance, signing someone like Romero to play back up to Jordan Pickford is a smart idea.

The Argentina international has had a fabulous career at the top level and is still very much a dependable figure between the sticks.

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Commenting on the ‘keeper’s qualities, his United teammate Eric Bailly stated: “Sergio has immense talent. Being number two to David [de Gea] is very difficult but in spite of the small number of matches he plays in when he does he proves himself and shows that at any given moment the coach can count on him.

“It’s very important for us to have a keeper who is always ready to take advantage of an opportunity and he does that every time.”

Romero would prove a useful form of council for Pickford as he strives to improve his game after an impressive European Championships.

However, rather than handing out a lucrative contract to someone reaching the end of their career, Benitez must look towards the future when he becomes the new manager.

21-year-old goalkeeper Joao Virginia earned three starts for the Toffees last term and is now in a position where he should be earning more opportunities.

The Portuguese has had an unrivalled football schooling, developing within the Arsenal youth academy and training under Arsene Wenger to learning from Carlo Ancelotti last term.

Though, if Romero arrives then it’s difficult to see how the youngster ever breaks through on a regular basis. Virginia would save the club a hefty sum of money, particularly if the Everton target’s salary is going to be expensive.

Benitez should forget about this deal and focus his attentions elsewhere.

AND in other news, Benitez can make an instant impact at Everton by signing "exceptional" 33-goal monster...