David Moyes of Everton and Eddy Kouadio
David Moyes of Everton and Eddy Kouadio
The Toffees are looking to strengthen the future of their backline, with uncertainty remaining around James Tarkowski and Michael Keane's future.
The pair are ageing, and though they can both still perform to a high standard in the Premier League, replacements will soon be needed.
Jarrad Branthwaite is a long-term target for Manchester United, and there are no guarantees that he stays in L3, which is where Kouadio could come into play.
David Moyes has welcomed several young talents to Hill Dickinson in the past year, and while not all of them have been instant hits, the vision of Angus Kinnear and Co. is clear to see.
Kouadio could be Everton's next long-term recruitment, as the Toffees' chase for the defender has now been revealed.
Everton's chase for Eddy Kouadio revealed
According to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, Kouadio is one of the most-watched Italian youngsters by Premier League clubs.
Scouts are said to have been in attendance for the Fiorentina hotshot, who is currently excelling on loan with Monza in Serie A.
Brentford and Bournemouth are both interested in the 20-year-old, while Hull City, Brighton and Everton have asked for transfer information in recent weeks.
The 6'3" defender was called up to Italy's national team by Roberto Mancini in September after impressing in his early appearances for Monza.
But what chances do the Toffees have of signing Kouadio in January?
Kouadio situation likened to £43m Chelsea signing
Kouadio has only played eight times for Fiorentina before being sent out on loan in the summer.
The youngster has been able to improve his playing chances with Monza, who reportedly have no intention of parting ways with the centre-back in January.
Offers from English clubs in the winter window are said to be likely; however, Marco Palestra's move to Chelsea has been likened to Kouadio's situation.
That's because Chelsea were keen on signing the 21-year-old last winter, but he honoured his loan agreement with Cagliari before permanently leaving Atalanta for Stamford Bridge in a £43million deal, as per Sky Sports.
It's unlikely that the Blues will be able to intervene in Kouadio's loan agreement with Monza, but their interest is now known.
There could be better potential for Everton to make a move for him in the summer.