Allardyce admits Tosun signing ‘might not work’

Sam Allardyce admits signing Cenk Tosun “is a risk” as the Everton new boy prepares for his Premier League debut.

Tosun is set to feature against Tottenham at Wembley tomorrow having signed for £28m from Beskitas a week ago.

But, after revealing he was keen to bring in Theo Walcott, Allardyce admits he has taken a gamble bringing in the Turkey international in January.

“It is not easy at all, it might not work. It is a massive problem in terms of you are hoping rather than being guaranteed he hits the ground running,” said the Toffees boss.

“When you look at the number of players who have been brought into this country from abroad – even in the summer – and not worked, particularly up front, it is a risk.”

Walcott is now Everton’s primary target but that is likely to mean a number of fringe players are moved on.

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Allardyce has frequently remarked on how bloated the squad is and he is willing to listen to offers for a number of players.

“There is a big squad and moving players out is essential to bringing more players in,” said the Toffees boss.

“It is essential we trim down the squad if we are to bring in players and adjust the balance of the squad and adjust the numbers.

“There are a number of players who are not satisfied at the position they are in at the moment – it’s only natural to say that when they are not getting a regular game or even getting on the bench.

“We’d be open to some negotiations for some of our players – we’ve had a number of enquiries from other clubs but none have hit what our valuation might be.”