With just eight games to go this season, Everton still find themselves in a relegation battle in the Premier League, however, this hasn't stopped Frank Lampard from eyeing up potential transfer targets ahead of next season - with an update emerging on one particular target in LaLiga.

What's the word?

According to Spanish publication Marca (via Sport Witness), Everton are keeping an extremely close eye on Luka Jovic's performances for Real Madrid ahead of a potential summer swoop, with the striker set to be given a second chance at his current club following an injury complaint from Karim Benzema.

Further reports have suggested that Real Madrid would be willing to part ways with Jovic for a figure of around €30m (£25m) this summer.

Bye-bye Richarlison

There have been numerous reports linking Everton forward Richarlison with a move to Manchester United at the end of the season, with the Brazilian even changing agents ahead of the summer transfer window.

If the Toffees star does leave this summer, it would be the perfect opportunity for Lampard to make a move for Jovic - who could well be a fantastic replacement for the 24-year-old next season.

The £152k-per-week ace who was hailed "dangerous" by Mladen Krstajic has only started 13 games for Real Madrid since joining in 2019 with only three goals from his 49 appearances.

However, his incredible form at his former club proves that the potential is there to be unleashed if he can get a consistent run of games under his belt.

Scoring 40 goals and providing 10 assists for Eintracht Frankfurt, the 24-year-old caught the eye of his current club when bagging an incredibly impressive 27 goals and seven assists over 48 appearances in 2018/19.

Indeed, this record more than proves that, when he is consistently involved, Jovic can offer a huge attacking output, something Everton are desperate for.

If Everton were to lose Richarlison this summer, Jovic would clearly be a worthwhile target to pursue as Lampard could offer him the game time he clearly needs to thrive, which gives the Toffees a great advantage to tempt the Serbian into a move to Merseyside.

However, Lampard will need to ensure he can secure top-flight football next season if he is going to have any chance of sealing a signing such as Jovic, with the last games of the season potentially making or breaking Everton's opportunity to rebuild their side this summer.

And in other news: Everton plot bid for "extraordinary" £35k-p/w ace, Lamps can finally axe £75k-p/w flop