Everton are targeting Lille defender Gabriel as they make a centre-half their priority summer signing.
The Blues have scouted the Brazilian several times in recent months as the recruitment team compile a shortlist for manager Carlo Ancelotti.
He has identified central defence as a key area to strengthen, with only three senior centre halves in his squad, and defence a weakness since he arrived at Goodison.
The 22-year-old has done well at Lille this season, and that has prompted Everton to watch him closely, while Arsenal and Leicester have also been present at Ligue 1 matches in recent months.
The 6ft 3ins Brazilian spoke recently about his desire to play in the Premier League, admitting it would be a dream for him.
He has emerged with his French club this season after joining as a youngster back in 2017. Everton see him as a long term prospect, and wouldn’t be put off by a price tag thought to be close to £30m.
Gabriel only signed a new contract at the French side last month after some impressive performances in his break through season, but is expected to leave in the summer.
Ancelotti and director of football Marcel Brands met owner Farhad Moshiri in Germany last week to discuss where the current squad needs strengthening and central defence was deemed an essential area.
