As reported by The Daily Mail, Everton are interested in signing Toulouse defender Issa Diop this summer, although face serious competition from other Premier League clubs.

What's the story?

The upcoming transfer window is expected to be one of transition for the Toffees, with new manager Marco Silva likely keen to stamp his own mark on the playing squad and a number of stars showing they simply weren't up to scratch last term.

One player on their radar is French U21 international Issa Diop.

That's according to The Mail, who report that Everton, Fulham, West Ham and a selection of others are all interested in his signature this summer.

The paper say that Ligue 1 side Toulouse are willing to listen to offers for the player, but will expect a fee of £26m for him.

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Who is he?

Helping Toulouse escape relegation last season, Diop is one of the more exciting defensive prospects in France, emerging as a leader for his struggling side at the age of just 21. At 6ft 4in tall, he clearly also has the physical presence to be a success in the Premier League.

Everton fans may have concerns about his age and readiness for the first team at Goodison Park but he has decent experience for his age, making close to 95 appearances for the French side, spending three seasons in Ligue 1.

He appears well placed to move on to bigger and better things and has the kind of potential that Everton should be investing in considering they can't compete with the biggest clubs for signings when they become more established.

This is a player that the Toffees should definitely consider strongly this summer.