Everton boss Ronald Koeman has refused to rule out a move for Diego Costa.

Yesterday, Joey Barton suggested that the Toffees, as well as Liverpool, should make an offer for the Chelsea striker, who is currently embroiled in a bitter feud with the club.

Speaking before Everton's Europa League qualifier with Hadjuk Split, Koeman reiterated his desire to sign a striker.

When asked about Costa, Koeman said: "Of course you like to sign players for the future, but if you can get the best one that way, then why not?"

He continued: "It's difficult ­because it needs to be a quality player, or a young player who can develop or improve.

"We have the possibility maybe to sign good players, but we don't play in the Champions League – and that sometimes makes things very difficult.

"Still, we need a striker. We signed Sandro, we know about the development of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but we need ­another one who can play the No.9 role.

"When you play in Europe – and let's hope we reach the ­Europa League – and in the ­Premier League you can't do it with one or two strikers.

"If we don't get a striker, then it's all about young players."