Midfielder reveals Man Utd's Wayne Rooney played part in January transfer decision

SHANI TARASHAJ has revealed Wayne Rooney played a part in his decision to sign for Everton.

 

Shani Tarashaj says Wayne Rooney influenced his decision to join Everton

 

The 20-year-old joined the Toffees last week on a four-and-a-half year deal and was immediately loaned back to Swiss club Grasshoppers.

Everton reportedly paid £3million for the Switzerland U21 international, who has scored eight goals in 18 matches this season.

 

And he has since admitted it was a 'dream' to sign for the Premier League club where his idol Wayne Rooney kick-started his professional career.

"It's a big club, it's a huge opportunity for me," he told Swiss newspaper Blick.

 

"I am a young player, and it's always been a dream of mine to play for Everton, to play in the Premier League.

"He [Wayne Rooney] started out his career there [at Everton] - it's a win-win situation for me.

 

"It's very important that I can help the team, and also continue my development."

Tarashaj is Everton's second January signing, having already brought in former Bury defender Matty Foulds for an undisclosed fee on January 2.