Everton manager Ronald Koeman has claimed that Romelu Lukaku is good enough to one day play for a "bigger club" than the Merseyside outfit.

The Belgium international has scored 50 Premier League goals for Everton since his permanent move to Goodison Park from Chelsea in 2014.

Lukaku was linked with a move away from the Toffees in the summer transfer window, but after Koeman replaced manager Roberto Martinez, the striker opted to remain at the club.

Despite the 23-year-old being a key part of Everton's attack, Koeman expects his player to move on and even suggests that he could one day play for Barcelona.

"I think he can emulate Patrick Kluivert, who also rose to prominence at a young age and enjoyed a fantastic career," Koeman told HLN. "He eventually played for Barcelona and I can see Lukaku doing the same.

"Everton should normally not be the end for him. Romelu will not have made the most of his career if he plays for Everton for the remainder of his career. He has the potential to play for a bigger club than Everton, but nobody knows what will happen after this season. We have a good relationship."

Everton are currently seventh in the Premier League table, eight points adrift of leaders Liverpool.