Allardyce reportedly identifies 2 highly-rated centre-back targets ahead of the transfer window

Everton will strengthen their squad when the winter transfer window opens, and manager Sam Allardyce has eyes on Charlton Athletic defender Ezri Konsa and Sheffield United’s Sam Graham.

The former was scouted over the weekend during a 2-0 League One defeat over Blackburn, and could be on his way to Goodison Park soon.

Konsa, 20, is regarded as one of the best youngsters in his position in the country, and is also being targeted by a couple of top sides.

Graham remains a top target of Everton, and has been frequently scouted since the start of the campaign.

The 18-year-old will link up with the under-23’s if he’s signed, following in the footsteps of Dominic Calvert-Lewin who arrived from United last summer.

Konsa on the other hand has a chance to link up with the senior team on a permanent basis having already established himself at Charlton, playing 18 league games this term.

His manager Karl Robinson recently said of the England youth international: “He’s the best young centre-back in the country.

“There’s nobody at his age better than him. Fact. Stand up, believe in your talent and show them how good you are. That’s my message to him.

“He needs to let that talent flourish now. If he does he will be one of the best in the Premier League.”