Everton have joined Chelsea in the race for £30m-rated Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij, according to the Daily Star.

What's the story?

It is not the first time that the Dutchman has been linked with a move to the Premier League, but this summer it seems more likely to happen given his situation at Lazio.

The Daily Star claims that the 25-year-old rejected a new contract at the Serie A club earlier this month, suggesting that the door is open for another club to swoop.

The British publication states that De Vrij is tempted by a move to Everton, but the offer of Champions League football at Chelsea could sway the move in the West London outfit's favour.

It is believed that Lazio would prefer to sell De Vrij this summer rather than let him run his contract down to 2018.

What does this mean for Everton's Keane pursuit?

The Sun reports that the Merseyside outfit are interested in snapping up Burnley defender Michael Keane for £25m.

The newspaper states that the player himself is leaning towards a switch to Goodison Park due to the offer of first-team football.

Pursuing De Vrij puts the potential transfer in doubt, but it is not unusual for clubs to be eyeing numerous targets in the same position.

Who would be a better option?

Both players are similar in age, but De Vrij has more experience at the top level after spending five years at Feyenoord before joining Lazio in 2014.

Keane began his career at one of the global superpowers - Manchester United - but he was shipped out on loan four times before sealing a permanent move to Burnley in 2015.

A positive for the England international is that he has Premier League experience, but De Vrij may have the edge as he has played under Everton manager Ronald Koeman before.

The defender spent three years learning from his fellow countryman at Feyenoord, so the pair already have a relationship.

This season, De Vrij has made 23 appearances in all competitions and has scored one goal and provided one assist in Serie A.

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