Everton are reportedly leading the race for Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes.
Manchester United have also been linked with the Portugal Under-21 international who has struggled for regular first-team football at Benfica.
The Toffees have stolen a march on their rivals in their chase, which also include West Ham and AC Milan, report The Athletic.
A potential 18-month loan agreement is in the pipeline which would include a £34million option to buy the 20-year-old on a permanent basis.
Carlo Ancelotti is set to meet with Goodison director of football Marcel Brands on Monday to discuss freshening up his squad.