Everton are reportedly in advanced talks over the signing of £30m-rated Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti is understood to have made bringing in defensive reinforcements his main priority in this summer's transfer window, having seen Everton keep just one clean sheet in their last 11 outings across all competitions.
Only five teams in the entire division have conceded more goals than Everton this term, and The Mirror reports that they have identified Gabriel as their top target to shore things up at the back.
The 22-year-old has made 34 appearances for Lille across all competitions this season, helping them to push for Champions League qualification again in Ligue 1.
Gabriel already has experience playing in the Champions League, which is also understood to appeal to Ancelotti as he looks to turn Everton into a team capable of challenging for a top-four finish.
Arsenal and Leicester City have also been linked with the Brazilian, but Everton are thought to be leading the race for his signature.
Barney Corkhill
