The only thought could be that Martinez has not been backed fully due to the poor season last year and still no sign of improvement, hence hesitation to fully back him? However it is dressed up it is indeed alarming to see clubs of stature far below that of Everton, enjoying positive transfer activity whilst our club appears to be doing nothing.
I wouldn't be surprised if we where to target Dennis Praet in regards to the number 10. I would guess the overall package would be far more palatable for our board than some of the more established names we are linked with.