Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted his admiration for Norwich City defender Ben Godfrey.
The Blues are thought to be close to agreeing a deal for the 22-year-old, with their offer understood to be £20m up front, with further bonus payments which could reach £26m in total.
And Ancelotti did little to play down the news when asked whether Everton had submitted the bid.
“I said in the past that we are looking for a centre-back because we are short there, and Godfrey is a really good centre-back," he said.
Godfrey made 30 appearances in the Premier League for Norwich last season, his impressive form winning him a call up to the England under-21 squad.
He has started all the Canaries' opening three matches of the Championship this season, but it is understood he will be allowed to leave if a deal can be thrashed out, says the Mirror.
