Ronald Koeman nears Everton deal

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman is close to agreeing a deal that will see him take charge of Everton, according to a report.

Recent speculation claimed that the Toffees were prepared to pay the Dutchman £6m a year to make the switch to Merseyside, which is believed to have been more than double what the Saints had offered up.

Now, following negotiations over the last couple of days, ESPN states that the 53-year-old is likely to be named Everton's new manager within a matter of days.

The report adds that as well as the hike in wages, Koeman has also been promised a decently-sized transfer budget by new owner Farhad Moshiri.

Koeman was appointed Southampton boss in June 2014.