Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has had an influence on Everton's move for Rafa Benitez.
Benitez, 61, was appointed Chelsea's interim boss in November 2012 until the end of the season following the dismissal of Roberto Di Matteo. He went on to guide the West London club to a third place finish in the Premier League table.
The Blues also lifted the Europa League trophy for the first time in their history after they beat Benfica 2-1 in the final.
The Independent says Abramovich was impressed enough by Benitez's work that he recommended him to Alisher Usmanov, a confidante and long-time business partner of Everton owner Farhad Moshiri.
Benitez is expected to be named as Everton's new boss by Monday at the latest. This despite a major backlash due to his past Liverpool ties.
