Everton are interested in the Leeds United right-back Sam Byram despite planning to resist any approach that may materialise from Manchester United for Seamus Coleman.
Byram, 21, has attracted inquiries from several Premier League clubs since graduating into the senior team three seasons ago and Everton have joined Newcastle and Sunderland in expressing interest. David Moyes, the former Everton manager, was keen on bringing Byram to Goodison Park along with John Stones in January 2013 as he looked to inject youth into his squad but only a deal for the Barnsley-born defender ultimately went through.
Everton, however, have continued to monitor the progress of the attack-minded full back and Moyes’ successor, Roberto Martínez, is considering an offer for a player who has made 108 appearances in the Championship for Leeds. Byram recently responded to questions over his future by declaring his focus is on helping Uwe Rösler’s side win promotion to the Premier League next season.
Martínez’s interest in Byram will inevitably create doubt over Coleman’s future at Goodison amid reports that the Republic of Ireland international is a summer transfer target for Louis Van Gaal. Everton have not received an inquiry from Old Trafford as yet and have no desire to sell the Donegal-born defender, who signed a new five-year contract with the club only last summer.
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