Everton face competition from Italian champions Juventus in the race to secure the services of Axel Witsel, according to reports from Tuttosport.

Everton have been long time admirers of Witsel and with the Belgian entering the final year of his contract at Zenit St Petersburg, it seemed like the Toffees stood a very good chance to secure the services of the midfielder.

According to reports emerging out of Italy though, it has been revealed that Everton could face stiff competition in their hopes of signing Witsel as Italian giants Juventus have joined in the race for the 27-year-old and are prepared to spend £19million to land him.

Witsel is also being targeted by Stoke City and AS Roma.