PSV Eindhoven sporting director Marcel Brands is edging closer to joining Everton.

The Independent says Brands has confirmed he is preparing to join the club.

The Dutchman will oversee changes in "football operations" and manager Sam Allardyce and director of football Steve Walsh are seeking clarity on their futures, with Brands believed to be targeting PSV's Mexican winger Hirving Lozano and Ajax's Hakim Ziyech.

Brands said the first contact with Everton came in 2016.

"I have said 'no' to beautiful clubs in Germany and I am with the best club in the Netherlands. Saying goodbye to the people at this club will be the hardest thing for me," he added.