Everton have enjoyed a really productive summer transfer window as Merlin Rohl becomes the ninth and final addition.
Rohl has joined Everton on an initial loan deal, however, the club will be obligated to purchase him if they stay in the Premier League.
The Germany under-21 international has been tracked by David Moyes for some time, dating back to when the Scotsman faced him as West Ham United manager in the Europa League.
“He’s an exciting prospect who we’ve followed at the Club for some time, and we’re all looking forward to working with him as we continue to build a squad and team at Everton,” Moyes told Evertontv.
To get the lowdown on exactly what to expect from Rohl, Everton News spoke exclusively to German football expert Ruairidh Petre, who presents The Bundesliga Show.
Freiburg's Merlin Röhl in action during Bundesliga clash.
Photo by Selim Sudheimer/Getty Images
What are Rohl’s strengths?
“For a tall man, Röhl is actually nicely versatile and not pegged to one position or skill set, in fact, he can play across midfield or as a support striker and has even filled in at left-back when required,” Petre explained.
“He’s a natural footballer and so doing the harder parts of the game comes easier, and he can drive the ball forward nicely and has a good powerful shot on him.”
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Where can he improve?
“As a young man he is yet to fully establish himself as a regular starter in Germany, which has ultimately come down to consistent performance levels, but has always been seen as a true talent ready to blossom.
“Therefore, the management at SC Freiburg have always believed in his natural ability. Another work on would be his efficiency and goal output, whether that is in the shape of goals or assists.
“His record to date for Freiburg is two goals and four assists across four seasons. The most he has played is 24 games in the 23/24 season, so again that word of consistency comes to mind.”
What is his best position?
“Most see Rohl as a natural central attacking midfielder, with his ability on the ball and comfort moving through defensive set-ups.
“What’s yet to become clear despite a good amount of first-team football at Freiburg is how natural he is in front of goal, which, as already mentioned, is something the 23-year-old needs to improve upon.”