Everton have held talks with Cuco Martina over signing the Southampton defender on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old is out of contract at St Mary’s Stadium this month and open to a move having failed to secure a regular place in Claude Puel’s team this season, making only 18 appearances in all competitions.
Ronald Koeman, who worked with the Dutch defender at Southampton and considered an approach for the former FC Twente player last year, wants cover at right-back because of Seamus Coleman’s long-term injury.
Coleman will be absent when next season begins as he recovers from a double leg fracture. Mason Holgate deputised for the Republic of Ireland captain last term and Everton also have Jonjoe Kenny emerging through the ranks, with the full-back impressing in the under-23s Premier League Two title win.
But Koeman believes more experience is needed and Martina’s ability to also play in central defence make him an appealing option on a free.