Everton are reportedly interested in signing Burnley's Josh Brownhill during the upcoming January transfer window, but a deal is dependent on the Toffees' ongoing takeover situation.
The 28-year-old has been a regular figure for the relegation-threatened Clarets in the Premier League this season, playing 16 matches and scoring three goals in the process.
That tally of strikes means that Brownhill currently leads the club's Golden Boot race alongside striker Lyle Foster, who took a month out of action to receive mental health treatment.
The combative midfielder has featured on 149 occasions for the Clarets since making the switch from Championship outfit Bristol City in January 2020, finding the net 13 times.
According to FootballTransfers, Brownhill could be in line for another New Year move, four years after he swapped Ashton Gate for Lancashire's Turf Moor.
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The report claims that in-form Everton are planning a January swoop for the Englishman, who has attracted the interest of Toffees manager Sean Dyche.
Everton are enjoying a four-game winning streak in the Premier League - in which they have not conceded a goal - meaning that they sit 16th in the top-flight standings, seven points away from danger.
The Merseyside outfit would actually be in 10th place if they had not received a 10-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules, highlighting the work that former Burnley boss Dyche is doing at Goodison Park.
With Brownhill's contract at Turf Moor expiring at the conclusion of the 2023-24 term, the Clarets risk losing the midfielder for nothing in the summer should they not sell him in the January window.
It is understood that Everton are not alone in their fondness of the 28-year-old, though, as Wolverhampton Wanderers are also said to be lining up a move for the player.
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Wolves are believed to be willing to secure the services of Brownhill for around £7m, however the introduction of Everton as a potential suitor could drive up the price.
The former Preston North End man was a key figure in Burnley's title-winning campaign last term in the Championship, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists alongside Josh Cullen in the engine room.
Summer arrival Sander Berge from Sheffield United is now the preferred option to partner Brownhill in the team's top-flight midfield, but nevertheless the 28-year-old remains an important cog in the side.
Looking to halt a run of three matches without victory in the Premier League, Brownhill and his Burnley teammates will travel to EFL Cup semi-finalists Fulham on Saturday afternoon.
Carter White
