Everton are preparing a bid for Sunderland defender Lamine Kone.
The Liverpool Echo says new Black Cats boss David Moyes is said to be assessing his squad, although he is not expected to cut Kone from the first team.
Therefore a big bid may be needed to prise the 27-year-old away from Wearside.
Everton's interest could intensify as John Stones nears his move to Manchester City, while Everton's first-choice replacement for Stones - Kalidou Koulibaly - is proving hard to sign.
Napoli recently sold Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus for £75million, meaning they have no need to sell Koulibaly despite Everton's financial muscle.