The likes of David Moyes, Manuel Pellegrini and Mark Hughes are said to be on a nine-men shortlist for the Everton job, according to the Daily Mirror.

Frank De Boer, Unai Emery, Ronald Koeman and Rafa Benitez are other names that have been linked with the post.

The Toffees sacked Roberto Martinez earlier this month and are actively searching for a quality replacement.

According to the report from the Mirror, Saints boss Koeman remains the first choice of the Everton hierarchy but they are not confident of luring him away from his job at St Mary's.

Meanwhile De Boer, who recently stepped down from his post at Ajax, has emerged as a favourite for the job at Goodison Park.

But in what could be a sensational return, Scotsman Moyes is a surprise inclusion on the list having managed Everton for 11 years up until his departure for Manchester United in 2013.