Everton are keeping tabs on West Bromwich Albion defender Craig Dawson, according to The Sun.
The newspaper claim that the Toffees, alongside Crystal Palace and Burnley, have kept a close eye on the 27-year-old enforcer as they weigh up a potential swoop in the summer.
The report states that the Baggies expect Dawson to leave the club at the end of the season, as they believe there will be a mass exit of players if they drop down into the Championship.
Alan Pardew’s side are currently rock-bottom of the Premier League and are eight points from safety after losing to Watford 1-0 on Saturday.
Dawson, who can operate as a right-back or centre-back, has made 23 appearances for his struggling side across all competitions this season.
Good move for Everton?
Not really.
Dawson has a lot of Premier League experience, having made 144 appearances in England’s top-flight for WBA, but that’s all he really offers that would benefit the Toffees.
The defender is solid and stable option to have in a Premier League squad, but he is no better than the Toffees’ current options at right-back.
Seamus Coleman and Jonjoe Kenny would both keep Dawson from featuring.
While he could play as a centre-back, his best position is on the right, so it makes no sense to sign him.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10
Likely to happen?
As West Bromwich Albion look extremely likely to be relegated, then Dawson could end up at Goodison Park.
However, given the fact the Toffees don’t seem in a desperate need to sign a player of his nature, Burnley and Crystal Palace may be willing to pay out more to seal a deal.
This could well mean the Toffees will probably miss out on Dawson’s signature.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10