Everton are rivaling Arsenal for Feyenoord midfielder Orkun Kokcu.

The Gunners have tabled a new, improved offer of €26.5m for the Turkey international this week.

However, Feyenoord are holding their nerve knowing Everton football chief Marcel Brands is also keen.

Brands is in the market for a creative midfielder and believes Kokcu fits the bill.

Indeed, Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti conceded just yesterday: "We need a little more energy in midfield, I think.

"That doesn't mean I'm not satisfied with the players we have, but you have to keep thinking about ways to improve your team. And this is an area where we can improve."

Feyenoord are banking on an auction for Kokcu this summer, with Arsenal's latest offer already a record for the Eredivisie club.