Everton have turned to Kurt Zouma in a bid to solve their defensive issues with the Toffees increasingly confident of landing the centre back on loan, according to reports.
Marco Silva's side face heading into the new season with just two fit centre backs, Phil Jagielka and Michael Keane, with Mason Holgate struggling with injuries and Ashley Williams loaned to Stoke.
Everton had agreed a £28.5million fee for Barcelona's Yerry Mina and were chasing a deal for Manchester United's Marcos Rojo but talks have since stalled.
And The Mirror report that Everton are now turning to Chelsea's Zouma as a solution to their problems at the back heading into the new campaign.
Everton are seeking a loan deal for the 23-year-old, who spent last season fighting an unsuccessful battle against relegation with Stoke.
The Toffees have added winger Richarlison, full back Lucas Digne and attacking mdifielder Bernard, subject to a work permit, so far this summer.
Bernard's arrival following his release from Shakhtar Donetsk is seen as a coup for Silva, whose personal intervention swung the deal Everton's way.
The 25-year-old, had been considering offers from Chelsea and West Ham as well as AC Milan and Inter Milan but will now join should he receive a work permit.
Everton begin their Premier League campaign away at Molineux against newly-promoted Wolves on Saturday evening.
alota-ae
47
Looks like Everton is aiming at making its defence the best in the EPL this. Hope they end up signing these players and be competitive in the league too. Cause there is nothing more interesting in a league than when all the teams are competitive. That's the power of the EPL.
Marching
31
Zouma broke through under Mourinho and played quite regular until he was struck with injury. Regardless, he's a top top player who's fast and can also play ball. Deserves to be in the Chelsea's starting 11.