Roberto Martinez plans at least six summer signings to compete in Europe next season #CarryGobySeanKellz #FutureGroupNG via @myentertain9jar

EVERTON boss Roberto Martinez claims he will need to sign at least six signings in the summer if they are to compete in Europe next season.

Martinez looks forward to bringing in new faces to Everton in the summer[GETTY]

Martinez is close to securing European football in his maiden term in charge of the Toffees, though it remains to be seen if they will qualify for the Champions League or Europa League.
And the former Wigan manager admits he will need to be busy when the transfer window reopens, with loanees Romelu Lukaku, Gerard Deulofeu, Gareth Barry and Lacina Traore all departing Goodison Park at the end of the season.
"It's not about improving - it's about increasing," Martinez said. "When you're playing in Europe you need to have another six or seven and that's the reality and we will do that - it's not an issue.

Lukaku will return to Chelsea at the end of his season-long loan deal [GETTY]

When you're playing in Europe you need to have another six or seven and we will do that

Roberto Martinez

"Every summer is busy. We signed 10 players in the previous two windows and that's what you expect from window to window.
"I never worry about losing players. It's the opposite - I get excited about bringing new players in. You need fresh blood.
"We've got incredible senior players at this club. You've got Tim Howard, Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines, Leon Osman, James McCarthy - those players hold the dressing room together.
"(But) we need fresh talent. Fresh additions help the team."