Everton are in desperate need of reinforcements following their horrendous start to their Premier League season that has left them fighting for survival over their second round of fixtures.

Over 20 league outings, the Toffees have collected just 15 points from a possible 60 and scored just 15 goals which is the second-worst tally in the entire top flight which has ultimately led to their rapid fall two points deep into the relegation zone as it stands.

Following Richarlison's exit in the summer and Dominic Calvert-Lewin's absence for the large majority of the last 18 months through injury, Everton have had their attacking threat drastically weakened with summer signings Dwight McNeil and Neal Maupay failing to make up goal contributions in the team since their arrival at Goodison Park.

As a result, the January transfer window presents a golden opportunity for Everton to add new players who can make an instant impact in front of goal to help the club avoid their first Premier League relegation at the end of the season.

One player who has been recently linked with a move to the blue side of Merseyside is Middlesbrough striker Chuba Akpom, a player who is currently in fine form in front of goal in the Championship.

Over 21 league appearances, the 27-year-old machine has scored 13 goals, registered one assist and successfully completed 46% of his dribbles, as well as averaging 2.7 shots on goal, 1.2 shots on target and winning 4.8 duels per game.

In fact, Akpom - who is currently the Championship top goal-scorer - could be the second coming of Calvert-Lewin as the 6-foot striker shares many similarities as the Everton goal machine also captured the attention of his current club whilst playing in the second tier with Sheffield United.

In terms of their styles of play the positional peers both use their height to win the ball in dangerous positions and both focus solely on finding the back of the net with most of their activity in and around the box.

With that being said, the signing of Akpom would be a major coup for Everton if he could continue his goal-scoring form at Goodison Park and could be the signing that saves them from relegation at the end of the season.