Sean Dyche wants two new signings before the transfer window closes on Tuesday night.
And the new Everton boss has prioritised his forward line, with the former Burnley manager desperate to strengthen a shot shy attack with the capture of a winger and another striker.
Manchester United ’s young star Anthony Elanga is the highest profile target, with the Blues still in contact over the possibility of a loan deal, but there is a reluctance at Old Trafford to let the 20 year old leave, given their own striking problems.
The Blues have also been in discussions for young Ghana international forward Kamaldeen Sulemana, who is valued at £20m by his club Rennes, though they are rivalled by Southampton for his signature.
West Ham ’s Michail Antonio is another possibility, but an injury to the Hammers’ new signing Danny Ings may scupper any chance of a move.
Premier League odds and betting tipsThere have also been links with West Ham defender Ben Johnson, but Dyche sees the forward line as a priority, and will concentrate his efforts on making signings before the window closes.
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While Everton raised £45m with the sale of Anthony Gordon to Newcastle, they still have issues in complying with the Premier League ’s profit and sustainability rules, so there will be limited funds available for transfers.
That makes loan deals more likely, and the Blues have made clear they have made no offer for Chelsea ’s Connor Gallagher, despite claims of a £45m bid.
Pressed for comment on potential incomings after he was unveiled as the new boss, Dyche admitted he has already started eyeing up potential candidates to bring to the blue half of Merseyside.
"Yeah, of course," he told evertontv, “When I got the great news from the chairman and owner about becoming manager, I was really pleased about that obviously, but straight away working with Kevin (Thelwell - director of football) about the lists, the players.
"We’ve already had a look at some and we will be meeting again today about what is there, what we can affect.
But even with that, it starts with the group here. I look at some of these players and they are good players, so it’s about enhancing them as well."