Everton are moving ahead of Arsenal in the race for sacked Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The Sun says Everton have stolen a march as Ancelotti's representative flew into London last night to meet them BEFORE discussions with Arsenal.

Sources close to Ancelotti say he has been left feeling as though Everton want him as their first choice, but that Arsenal are far less decided.

The three-time Champions League winner is understood to be ready to jump straight back in, once his severance package with Napoli is agreed, and would prefer a job in London.

But he is very much open to discussing the prospect of a role at Goodison Park.

The Toffees are moving quicker in their search for a new boss and are willing to give Ancelotti a two-and-a-half year deal AND funds to spend in the next two windows to mould his own team.