Rafa Benitez and Marcel Brands are locked in talks over a potential swoop for Everton to sign PSV right-back Denzel Dumfries, according to Liverpool Echo journalist Phil Kirkbride.
Writing on the Liverpool Echo website, Kirkbride reports that Everton's director of football Brands is a fan of the 25-year-old Netherlands international and is discussing him with Benitez.
It is understood that Dumfries is valued at £15million and there is "confidence a deal could be done".
However, Kirkbride adds that "Everton have been looking at alternatives to Dumfries", and "insiders" have suggested the Blues could find a short-term solution at right-back.
No short-term solution
We have to play the long game when it comes to recruitment because two of Benitez's three signings this summer already smack of short-term planning.
Everton are held back a bit by profit and sustainability rules but over time, it would probably be more cost-effective and more profitable to spent £15million on a player like Dumfries, rather than signing a short-term solution every two years.
According to Kirkbride, the Toffees could look into signing an experienced Premier League player to compete with Seamus Coleman for the right-back slot next season.
While that is fine for one season or two, Dumfries is 25-years-old and was easily one of the most exciting talents at the European Championships this summer.
The Dutch right-back scored twice in the Euros, adding to the four goals and nine assists he notched for PSV in 41 appearances across all competitions last season.
He's as attack-minded as a full-back can get and can really add a dangerous weapon to Everton's attack and also potentially improve the defence.
Brands and Benitez need to get this deal done.