Everton have been linked with a move for Monaco midfielder Aleksandr Golovin as new manager Rafa Benitez looks to replace the departed James Rodriguez over the coming months.

What's the story?

According to Russian outlet Championat (as relayed by Inside Futbol), the Toffees are showing a 'serious interest' in the highly-rated 25-year-old ahead of a potential bid.

Inside Futbol's report claims a source was quoted as saying: "The Premier League club is showing serious interest in the Russian midfielder. So far, everything is at an initial stage."

An expected price tag isn't listed for Golovin, but with his current contract not set to expire until the summer of 2024, it could take a sizeable fee to prize him away from the principality club.

Everton fans will love him

The Russia international established himself as one of the most exciting and promising talents in his homeland after making 113 appearances for boyhood club CSKA Moscow, helping them lift the top-flight title in 2016.

Golovin's impressive displays for the capital club saw him play a pivotal part in his country's run to the 2018 World Cup quarter-finals, where his performances caught the eye of Jose Mourinho.

During his work as a television pundit for broadcaster RT, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager said: "Golovin is a playmaker, he’s a player that gives the dynamic of the team."

And it wasn't only Mourinho who was convinced by the creative talents showings on the biggest stage of them all.

Ligue 1 outfit Monaco spent big money to secure the £25.2m-rated magician's services after the tournament, and although he made a slow start to life in French football, Golovin is now finding his best form once again.

Since the beginning of 2020/21, the versatile forward has bagged nine goals and provided a further 12 assists in 40 appearances for Niko Kovac's charges, illustrating the true potential that Golovin possesses.

His ability to play defence-splitting passes with ease, provide threat from dead-ball situations, and his defensive work-rate means he's a player that the Everton faithful would love to see arrive on Merseyside during the winter window.

With Rodriguez's exit over the summer leaving a significant gap in Benitez's squad, the Blues' hierarchy could secure the ideal candidate to plug it by sanctioning a move for Golovin.

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