Everton readying increased bid for Schneiderlin

Lyndon Lloyd | Friday, 06 January 2017

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Having identified the former Southampton midfielder as one of his top targets for the January transfer window, Ronald Koeman is hopeful that a bid closer to the £24m Manchester United paid for Morgan Schneiderlin will land the player.

Everton have already had a £19m offer knocked back after one by West Bromwich Albion reported to be £13m was also rebuffed. The Baggies are believed to still be interested amid tabloid speculation they were prepared to go to £20m but the midfielder's apparent preference for Goodison and the Blues' resolve is expected to win the day.

The Birmingham Mail's West Brom reporter, Paul Suart, tweeted yesterday that it was his information that it is "purely a matter of time" before Schneiderlin signs for Everton.

Reports that the 27-year-old was having a medical at Finch Farm today are believed to be wide of the mark.

Reported interest in Schneiderlin from Marseille could be a late fly in the ointment for Steve Walsh and Koeman, however, although it is uncertain whether the Ligue 1 side could match the Blues financially.

Landing Schneiderlin's current Old Trafford team-mate Memphis Depay looks less likely, however, after it emerged that United will only let the Dutchman leave on a permanent deal and not on loan.

Everton are believed to prefer a loan option given their anticipated outlay on players this month.