{{primary_category}}
{{/primary_category}} 
Everton to rival PL giants for highly-rated enforcer, manager will sanction move - report
New Everton manager Sam Allardyce has Jonny Evans on his list of January targets, according to a report.
ESPN claim that the Toffees will rival Manchester City and Arsenal for the 29-year-old, with new manager Sam Allardyce looking to strengthen his defensive options.
The report states that Everton have the financial power to compete with their Premier League rivals but it is unclear whether West Brom would be willing to sell their captain.
The report also claims that new West Brom manager Alan Pardew is keen to keep hold of him but would be willing to sell if it gives him funds to strengthen his side elsewhere in the January transfer window.
Football Insider verdict:
Everton have conceded 28 goals in 15 Premier League games this season, so it is no wonder Allardyce is looking to improve his back-line. The likes of Ashley Williams, Phil Jagielka and Michael Keane have all struggled for form this season and Evans could be a very good signing for the club, given his Premier League and international experience. However, Premier League rivals West Brom are believed to be reluctant to sell the centre-back, who is entering the final 18 months on his contract. Even if the Toffees could convince West Brom to allow him to leave the club, it would have to be for a good price and even then they may find it difficult to persuade Evans to move to Goodison Park, with Manchester City and Arsenal also thought to be interested.
Get Exclusive transfers news at Football Insider's YouTube TV channel
In other Everton news, Toffees fans have reacted to the news that they will play rivals Liverpool in the third round of the FA Cup.
We’ve launched a << BREAKING NEWS FEED>> exclusively for your club. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Everton breaking news.