Everton have been linked with a move for Anthony Elanga this month and now a new update has emerged from a reliable source on the club’s pursuit of the player.

What’s the latest?

Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Everton’s interest in the Manchester United winger.

Romano tweeted: “Anthony Elanga, discussed between Lampard and the board as option for January window.”

He’s a Gordon upgrade

Frank Lampard will be hoping that he will be given the opportunity to strengthen his squad over the transfer window as the Premier League campaign so far has not been smooth sailing.

Despite picking up an important point at the Etihad on New Years’ Eve, the Toffees are currently just two points clear of the bottom three going into the second half of the season and must improve their performances on the pitch to avoid another difficult relegation scrap.

Adding depth to the forward-line will likely be the biggest priority for the Everton boss over the month ahead with the joint-third worst goals scored in the entire Premier League, however, financial constraints could limit the club’s options.

As a result, a loan deal for Elanga could be the perfect chance to bring in a fresh perspective to their attacking threat without the commitment of spending big ahead of the summer.

The 20-year-old Man United academy graduate - who was hailed “phenomenal” by journalist Alex Turk - has been a regular feature at Old Trafford since making his debut in May 2021 and could now use some regular first-team football to continue his development.

Elanga could even be an upgrade on Anthony Gordon as the young winger has been outperforming the boyhood Evertonian in many attributes this season.

Indeed, the United prodigy has registered more assists (1 v 0), has a better pass completion rate (75% v 70.9%), produces more shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (3.60 v 1.85), amasses more completed dribbles (25% v 19%) and has won a higher portion of aerial duels (38.9% v 22.2%).

With that being said, the signing of Elanga could be a great piece of business for Everton as having quality options to deploy in front of goal could considerably improve their season as they aim to climb the table into a comfortable position in 2023.