Everton have struggled yet again in the Premier League this season and it would come as no surprise if Frank Lampard is keen to make moves in the January transfer window, with a new potential transfer target emerging.

What's the latest?

According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Everton are interested in signing Hoffenheim midfielder Dennis Geiger.

Plettenberg tweeted:

"X News #Geiger: SL Benfica & Everton highly interested in the 24 y/o central midfielder. Some Bundesliga teams too. Tendency at this stage: No contract extension at Hoffenheim, free agent 2023. Talks with all parties ongoing. Current salary around €1.5-2m/year. @SkySportDE"

Lampard can land his own Kovacic

There is no doubt that the Everton boss will want to continue developing and rebuilding his squad after signing eight players in his first full transfer window at Goodison Park and may have the golden opportunity to do so in the new year.

The Toffees are currently 17th in the Premier League, just one point shy of falling into the relegation zone which would be an absolute disaster for the club in their efforts to retain their top-flight status and stabilise in the league table.

As a result, the signing of Geiger could be a big coup in January especially if they can get him for a cut price due to contract expiration next summer.

Over 14 Bundesliga appearances, the talented 24-year-old has scored one goal, registered two assists and tallied up a 91% pass completion in his own half, as well as averaging 1.6 key passes, 1.6 tackles and 2.8 duels won per game, proving that he is a real threat in the centre of the pitch.

The German sensation has been the recipient of high praise due to his consistent performances in midfield for his nation's U21 team, with former Germany head coach Joachim Low saying:

"His technique is good and he has developed well, he is a player with great prospects, and we are constantly evaluating all U21 national team players."

More praise comes from former Hoffenheim striker, Sandro Wagner, who compared him to one of Germany's best players: "He's a real live-wire on the pitch. With a few more improvements, he can be like Joshua Kimmich."

However, that's not the only player he's been compared to. Indeed, Lampard could land his very own Mateo Kovacic with the two midfielders sharing many similar capabilities and talents in their output this season, with the Chelsea star the fifth most comparable player to Geiger according to FBRef.

The two midfielders came close in many of their attributes including pass completion (84.6% v 83.3%), pass completed (405 v 404), interceptions (11 v 10), aerial duels won (33.3% v 44.4%) and ball recoveries (66 v 49).

With that being said, it would be a great piece of business if Everton can snap up the services of Geiger in January and the midfielder could be a hugely valuable asset to Lampard in the second half of the campaign.