Everton are believed to be interested in securing the signing of Manchester United’s Chris Smalling when the defender’s contract expires next summer.
The 28-year-old is in the final year of his contract at Old Trafford, although the club do have an option to extend, and Everton are keen to secure his services either in a cut-price January deal or on a free transfer next summer.
Smalling has been a regular starter for United so far this season, and is believed to have been offered a new contract at the club, although The Sun are reporting that he wants improved terms on his current £90,00-a-week wages.
Despite an improvement in Smalling’s form and his contract offer, Jose Mourinho has actively been seeking defensive additions to bolster a defence which has conceded more goals than any other team in the top 10.
Everton boss Marco Silva, set to be backed with funds by the club, has been scouting the former Fulham defender as he looks for reinforcements at Goodison Park.