Everton's summer transfer plans are beginning to take shape as David Moyes looks to build on the progress made during his first full season back at the club.
The Blues have been linked with a number of players over the past week as recruitment work continues behind the scenes ahead of another important campaign at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
David-Moyes
One name that refuses to go away is Hayden Hackney.
Reports have suggested Everton remain keen on the Middlesbrough midfielder, with Moyes believed to be a huge admirer of the 24-year-old's energy, passing range and ability to dictate play from deep positions.
Sky Sports reported that Boro knocked back Everton's initial approach for Hackney, with both sides currently far apart in valuation, but it is a situation that is still worth watching.
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Elsewhere, Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand has also been credited with attracting Everton interest.
The Danish international would represent a more experienced option and is exactly the type of leader Moyes has often favoured throughout his managerial career.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounding Jack Grealish's long-term future has continued following his loan spell on Merseyside.
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Questions remain over whether Everton could put together a package to keep the England international permanently, but his name continues to feature heavily in transfer discussions surrounding the club.
The club's recruitment team appear determined to provide Moyes with greater depth across several positions rather than focusing on one marquee signing.
Jack Grealish and Everton manager David Moyes
Now, another familiar face has emerged as a major transfer talking point.
Everton in talks with Chelsea over re-signing Tyrique George
According to TEAMtalk transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey, Everton are in 'ongoing' talks with Chelsea over a deal to bring Tyrique George back to Merseyside following his loan spell last season.
Chelsea-Tyrique-George
The 20-year-old winger reportedly impressed club staff with his attitude and work ethic during his time under Moyes.
While George may not have been a guaranteed starter every week, he showed enough potential to convince Everton that there is a player worth investing in for the future.
However, the situation is not quite as straightforward as triggering the buy-option included in the original January agreement.
The clause is believed to be worth around £22 million and Everton are now exploring ways to reduce the overall cost of a permanent transfer, as per TEAMtalk.
Discussions with Chelsea are understood to be underway as the Blues attempt to find a structure that works financially for all parties.
That approach makes sense given Everton's wider transfer plans.
Everton winger Tyrique George
Moyes is looking to strengthen several areas of his squad this summer and saving money on one deal could help create room for additional signings elsewhere.
Rather than committing the full amount immediately, Everton appear keen to negotiate terms that would allow them greater flexibility throughout the window.
George himself remains highly regarded, after making 11 appearances for them last term.
Still only 20, the Chelsea academy graduate has plenty of time to develop and Everton apparently believe there is significant upside if he continues progressing.
His pace, direct running and willingness to work for the team made a positive impression throughout his spell at the club.
Whether Chelsea agree to Everton's revised proposal remains to be seen.
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