Everton midfielder Beni Baningime is reportedly the subject of a transfer offer from Hearts.
The DR Congo-born star has made 12 appearances for the Toffees' first team since 2017 with loan spells at Wigan and Derby too.
But he could be set to move on to Robbie Neilson's Jambos this window after staying behind while the rest of the squad left to take part in the Florida Cup in America.
He began pre-season by linking up with new boss Rafa Benitez but remained at home as Everton made for Orlando to take on Millonarios and Pumas UNAM.
He has only a year left on his contract but the Liverpool Echo claim the offer is for a permanent Tynecastle move.
Baningime has had a frustrating spate of injuries that derailed his Goodison Park progress but was once highly regarded in their youth setup, winning the Premier League 2 title.
Hearts could do with midfield reinforcements after losing Andy Irving to German 3. Liga side Turkgucu Munchen.
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