Everton face frustration in their bid to land Virgil van Dijk from Southampton.
Ronald Koeman is preparing to raid his former club as he looks to overhaul their defensive set-up following a first season in charge of the Blues.
The Dutchman has identified compatriot Van Dijk as a potential summer recruit despite Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool also in the hunt for the player.
However Saints boss Claude Puel has warned that the South Coast club are preparing to resist all offers for the defender, who has not played since January.
He said: “He’s our captain, and he’s important for us.
“In terms of the leadership of the team, he’s a fantastic player for us.
“We have to wait until the beginning of next season to see him back on the pitch with us.
“With Southampton he has a long contract. I think the directors want to keep him.”