Everton are reportedly lining up a swoop for Manchester United defender Phil Jones this summer.
The 26-year-old has been in and out of favour under Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford and has not played for the club in more than a month due to hamstring injuries.
The England international's current contract - worth an estimated £50,000 a week - is due to expire at the end of next season although United do hold the option of extending those terms for a further 12 months.
According to The Times, Toffees manager Sam Allardyce is keen to not only sign Jones, with whom he previously worked at Blackburn Rovers, but also "build a new-look defence around the player".
The newspaper says that Jones and Allardyce have remained in touch since the pair's respective departures from Ewood Park and the manager is adamant that Jones will thrive if he is given regular first-team football and manages to stay fit.
The Toffees have also been linked with a move for Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere over the summer.
Neil Wilkes
