Udinese have emerged as contenders for Marco Silva's signature, which could potentially pour doubt over Everton's chances of landing him as new manager, according to Gazzetto dello Sport.

What's the word?

This time last year, Everton fans were getting excited by the prospect of the club's summer spending activity under then-manager Ronald Koeman.

Fast-Forward 12 months and now the club are on the hunt for their second boss since Koeman's sacking in October.

Sam Allardyce was dismissed at the end of the season, and it is safe to say that not many were shocked by the news.

According to the Liverpool Echo, Everton are closing in on the appointment of former Hull City and Watford manager Silva, but Gazzetta dello Sport report that he is also on the shortlist for Udinese.

It is believed that the Portuguese coach's former club Watford will demand compensation from Everton if they appoint Silva after accusing the Toffees of illegally approaching the manager last year.

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What should Silva do?

It does not appear that a move to Everton would be smooth sailing, despite the fact that the 40-year-old is a free agent.

However, it would be a very odd decision on his part to take over at Udinese, who have won just four trophies during their existence.

The main reason why it would be a baffling move is down to the fact that the club are owned Giampaolo Pozzo, who is also the owner of Watford.

Everton did not have the season that they wanted, but they avoided relegation relatively comfortably and they can begin the 2018-19 campaign with a fresh slate.

Whether Silva will be the man in the dugout remains to be seen.