Everton are stepping up interest in Lille defender Adama Soumaoro.
The 25-year-old is valued at over £20million by the struggling French side and his sale will help alleviate their financial troubles.
Soumaoro missed the start of the season with tendinitis in an Achilles but has recovered and regained his pace in the starting line-up.
Everton have watched the versatile defender in recent weeks and have compiled favourable reports as manager Sam Allardyce looks to strengthen his squad in January.