Richard Rios 'frontrunner' revealed amid Everton transfer race

Everton will find it "very difficult" to win the race to sign Benfica midfielder Richard Rios this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Toffees have been linked with the 26-year-old of late, while there is also significant interest from the likes of Bournemouth and Napoli.

Napoli are understood to be the current "frontrunners" in the race for the Colombian's signature, as they can offer Champions League football to tempt him into a move.

Sources have indicated that Benfica also do not want to lose Rios ahead of next season, and have no intention of lowering his £87million release clause at all.

Everton are unable to get anywhere close to that figure despite their desire to do a deal, which makes a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium increasingly unlikely.

Napoli are currently making the most progress towards a deal and hold a clear edge over the pair of Premier League suitors.

Everton to turn attention elsewhere for new midfielder

David Moyes is keen to strengthen his squad across the board this summer, as he prepares to try and make a push for European football next term.

That includes bolstering the ranks in the centre of midfield, despite the early signing of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough.

Idrissa Gueye is currently out of contract on Merseyside, while Tim Iroegbunam has been heavily linked with a move away of late.

Moyes needs options to provide cover for the likely duo of Hackney and James Garner, but the solution is likely to be from a far more cost-effective source than Rios.

The Toffees simply do not have the financial capability to make an offer that would tempt Benfica into doing business, given the security that their release clause provides.

Instead, Moyes and Co. are set to look elsewhere to get the central addition that they desire this summer.

Everton eye swoop for Rico Lewis

Football Insider revealed on Monday that Everton have a move for versatile Manchester City starlet Rico Lewis on their radar at the moment.

The 21-year-old had been tipped for a huge future at the Etihad Stadium, but is now keen to play more football after starting just four Premier League games last term.

Lewis is under contract in Manchester until the summer of 2030, and it remains to be seen whether City would be willing to sell him this summer.

Primarily a right-back, the starlet can also play in the centre of midfield, and Everton are keen to strike a deal for him if the chance arises.