Everton have failed with an opening offer for Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure.
The Toffees have a long-standing interest in the Frenchman, who is expected to leave Vicarage Road this summer after Watford were relegated to the Championship.
Everton have now made an opening offer for Doucoure, but Standard Sport understands it has been rejected as it falls short of Watford's valuation.
The Hornets are ready to let the 27-year-old go, but are holding out for an initial fee of around £25million.
Everton are expected to return with a new bid for Doucoure as manager Carlo Ancelotti is keen to add him to his squad.
Personal terms are not expected to be an issue either, with Doucoure ready to move to Goodison Park.
Doucoure has also attracted interest from clubs in his native France, but it is understood his current desire would be to carry on playing in the Premier League.
