At the very least, Raiola is hedging his bets, using words that are both true and flattering to describe what's happening at Everton, and so paving the way for Lukaku to stay without either losing face or alienating the fans.
Of course, Raiola might be getting the sense that no-one wants to pay our asking price, but it suggests also that the perception of Everton in the football world is changing. "Everton don't need the money" - so can afford to take a tough stance because they're no longer carrion for vultures circling. And if they're now loaded, it will serve an agent well to stay on their right side. If we're being buttered up by a top agent, it can only mean good things.
For all his faults, I want Lukaku to stay, for all sorts of reasons. Same with Stones. What I'd also like us to do is buy a top centre half and centre forward to put pressure on them. It seems we no longer have to bend over backwards with players in the hope they'll keep liking us, tolerating poor form and attitude because we're afraid of upsetting them. Now they have to prove themselves to us, and keep proving it. The dynamic has shifted, more Remain rather than Legsit.
