Back in 2009, Everton looked to have sealed the signing of highly rated Argentine Ever Banega on loan from Valencia. Manager David Moyes had gone to the trouble of securing a work permit for the midfielder, which with all the hassle involved in that process was quite a feat for the Blues. He thought the club had finally confirmed the signing before Valencia began to stall on the deal, continuing to select the player for La Liga matches and even the Europa League, meaning he would be ruled out for Evertons group games at least. The Spanish club then pulled out of the deal entirely when they failed to secure a replacement, leaving Everton bitterly disappointed. He would play a big part in the Spanish clubs successful 2010/11 season, helping the club to finish third and qualify for the Champions League. Had the Blues secured his signature it would have seem them finally replacing Thomas Gravesen in the defensive midfield role, allowing them to use Mikel Arteta further forward, where he was arguably more effective in the Royal Blue. Banega was again linked with the club this summer but a move never materialised and he has since joined Sevilla, reuniting with former boss Unai Emery.
