Farad Moshiri is plotting an Everton bid for defender Levi Colwill as Frank Lampard looks ahead to next season.
What’s the word?
That's according to reports via The Daily Mail who claims Lampard wants to raid former club Chelsea to sign centre-back Colwill in a loan deal for next season.
Crystal Palace are also keen on the player, but Everton looks more likely to give him first-team football as they secured their Premier League status.
Lampard needs to bolster his defence
Everton defeated Crystal Palace last week to remain in the top flight by the skin of their teeth and now the 43-year-old can relax and plan ahead for what will be an important season ahead.
Only four teams conceded more goals in the league than Everton and this is an area which needs urgently needs improvement during the summer transfer window.
Colwill has starred for Huddersfield Town this season having joined on loan, leading them to the play-off final against Nottingham Forest and they can secure another promotion to the top flight with a victory.
With an average WhoScored rating of 7.01, the 19-year-old is ranked fourth in the squad and despite his age, he could be a wise signing for Everton.
Fellow teammate Lewis O’Brien has dubbed him “fantastic”, with Nizaar Kinsella describing him as a “huge talent” and on the strength of his performances this season, it's clear to see why.
The teenager is strong in the challenge, being dribbled past just 0.2 times per game this season, as well as making an impressive 1.8 tackles a match.
Thus, the next stage of his development will surely be playing in the Premier League on a regular basis and with Everton and Palace keen, there’s no shortage of admirers.
Lampard could utilise his Chelsea connections and work out a deal for the youngster and he could get vital experience as he strives toward succeeding at his parent club.