Everton have been linked with a move for Roma manager Jose Mourinho with current boss Rafa Benitez subject to growing pressure. The Portuguese boasts a notorious record in the Premier League, managing Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

What's the talk?

According to The Mirror, "Jose Mourinho has emerged as a potential target for Everton if they decide to pull the plug on Rafa Benitez's reign."

Benitez has been an unpopular figure at Goodison Park since the moment he stepped through the door to replace Carlo Ancellotti, given his spell as manager of city rivals Liverpool.

The 61-year-old is under increased pressure after a poor spell of eight games without a win, losing six of those and conceding 17 goals in the process. Therefore, owner Farhad Moshiri simply has to act.

Could save their season

There is little doubt that Benitez won't be in charge of Everton in the foreseeable future, meaning that the Toffees hierarchy will be seeking a replacement. It is entirely possible that they are already in the process of doing so.

However, having only joined Roma in the summer, Mourinho should at least hold on to what he labelled a "great club" having been convinced to sign by "the incredible passion of the Roma fans."

The Giallorossi currently sit fifth in the Serie A table, however, they are already nine points adrift of the top four after 16 matches. Mourinho's side are also through to the knockout stages of the Europa Conference League.

Despite an uphill battle to qualify for the Champions League, the 58-year-old is still in charge of a competitive outfit pushing for European qualification and are also still in European competition.

As for Everton, the task at hand is certainly complicated for whoever replaces Benitez (should he be sacked). European qualification looks well out of their depth, at least for this season, with a top-half finish looking their best-case scenario, if we're being realistic.

Although Mourinho would be wise to stay at Roma, if Everton were to convince the 58-year-old to return to England, they would be getting a "serial winner" in the process, somebody who could save their season.

Labelled a "powerhouse" by Manchester United legend Eric Cantona, the Portuguese has a vast array of accolades including three Premier League titles, two Champions League titles, four League Cups, one FA Cup and a Europa League title.

Thus, Everton would very much be getting someone in the mould of Carlo Ancelotti - a coach they'd hope would stay on Merseyside for a longer period of time. Judging by his success, prior experience of English football, and incredible mentality, he'd be a wise appointment by Moshiri and co.

It would certainly be a risk for Mourinho if he was to swap Rome for Liverpool. However, it certainly appears as though Benitez's days at Goodison Park are numbered and, whether it be the Portuguese or not, someone will surely be needed to replace the Spaniard in the not too distant future.