According to reports in The Mirror, Everton and West Ham United have joined the race to sign in-demand West Bromwich Albion centre-back Jonny Evans, who is also a target for Premier League leaders Manchester City.

What's the word, then?

Well, The Mirror says that while City boss Pep Guardiola is ready to return for the 29-year-old having tried to bring him to the Etihad during the summer, West Brom want to keep him at the Hawthorns and are ready to offer him a new contract.

However, The Mirror adds that West Ham and Everton are also keen, with Irons boss David Moyes believing he can add some experience and leadership to the leakiest defence in the Premier League, while new Toffees manager Sam Allardyce believes that Evans can be a key player as he looks to restore some organisation to the Merseyside outfit's backline.

How has Evans done this season?

While West Brom are struggling at the wrong end of the top flight table, the Baggies skipper has once again been one of their most consistent performers at the back.

The 29-year-old missed the start of the campaign because of injury but he has played in their last 12 Premier League matches since, although they haven't won any of those.

Would he be a good signing for Everton and West Ham?

He certainly would be.

The Toffees certainly look to need defensive reinforcements with Ashley William struggling to find form and summer addition Michael Keane losing confidence following an impressive start to life at Goodison Park, and Evans would bring some leadership and quality to the backline, while he is also calm in possession.

Meanwhile, the east London outfit have conceded a Premier League high of 32 goals in 15 matches this season, and they look to be in need of an experienced and composed figure at the back.

Can they beat City to him?

It depends on the player.

If Evans wants one last shot at winning trophies then he could choose to move to City even though he may not play every week, but if he wants a different challenge then Everton and West Ham could be an attractive proposition.

Both clubs have big potential despite poor seasons to date, but they would offer him regular playing time.

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