Everton are closing in on the signing of Southampton defender Cuco Martina after he flew to Merseyside on Wednesday for talks, according to website Football Faithful.
The report states that Martina travelled to Liverpool from Amsterdam in order to thrash out a move with Ronald Koeman’s side, which could see him become the Toffees’ first signing of the summer.
The Daily Mail had claimed earlier this month that Koeman was interested in signing the 27-year-old, after bringing the 27-time Curacao international to the Premier League as Saints boss in 2015 from FC Twente.
Martina’s is set to leave Claude Puel’s south coast outfit in just over a month’s time, as his current contract with the Saints is set to expire on June 30.
The Dutch-born defender is believed to be high on the shortlist of Koeman as the former Ajax boss looks to add cover for crocked right-back Seamus Coleman, as the Ireland captain suffered a broken leg while on international duty.
Martina is best remembered for his sensational strike against Arsenal back in December 2015, that saw him produce an unorthodox effort with the outside of his right foot that curled beyond the reach of Petr Cech from long range.
However, Martina has made just 24 Premier League appearances in two seasons with his current side, playing second fiddle to Euro 2016 winner Cedric Soares.
Southampton’s number 18 could now jump ship and join the Toffees with talks ongoing, after making just 15 appearances in all competitions this season.
It has seen Martina even drop to the reserves on two occasions this year, with his future at St. Mary’s Stadium now as good as over.