Ramy Bensebaini is on the verge of becoming Marco Silva’s first Everton signing.
Bensebaini made 32 appearances for Rennes last season as they qualified for the Europa League group stages with a fifth place finish in Ligue 1.
But reports in France claim that the versatile centre-back, 23, will be linking up with Silva as the first recruit of his Blues revolution this summer.
According to L’Equipe, Goodison Park officials are said to have been locked in negotiations with their Rennes counterparts for several days.
Bensebaini’s anticipated departure is expected to pave the way for the Ligue 1 side to line up Lyon defender Fernando Marca as his likely replacement.
In addition to playing at centre-back, the Algeria international can also operate as a left-back and in a holding midfield role.
Everton are also understood to be eyeing a move for Barcelona’s Yerry Mina as his future at the Nou Camp appears increasingly uncertain.