Everton have now identified "one of the best centre-backs in Europe" as a priority target, and they are planning to make a formal bid.
Toffees eyeing new defender amid European push
The Toffees are on track to push for the European places this season, moving up to eighth in the Premier League after the late 2-1 victory against Fulham at the weekend, and their solid defence has been the key to their success.
Indeed, David Moyes' side have conceded just 28 goals this season, the lowest number of any team outside the top five, which has made up for the fact they haven't exactly been prolific in front of goal, finding the net on fewer occasions than 18th-placed West Ham United.
Moyes has recently been further boosted by the return of Jarrad Branthwaite, with the Englishman featuring in each of the last three Premier League games, albeit only as a late substitute in the victory at Craven Cottage.
Even so, following Branthwaite's return, the Merseysiders have plenty of options at the back, but they have now set out to sign a new defender in the summer transfer window.
Everton manager David Moyes reacts alongside Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite
That is according to a report from Spain, which states Atletico Madrid centre-back Robin Le Normand has been identified as Everton's 'top priority target', as there is a belief he would be a perfect fit in Moyes' side.
Such is their level of interest, the Toffees are planning to submit a formal bid, to ensure they win the race for Le Normand's signature before a bidding war breaks out at the end of the season.
Interestingly, the Spanish club are willing to sanction a departure, and they have set an asking price of €40m (£35m).
Le Normand regarded as one of Europe's "best" centre-backs
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is certainly a big fan of the Atletico Madrid star, saying earlier this season: "I'm very happy with him, delighted. I think he's one of the best centre-backs in Europe.
"I know his strengths, I know they can't be changed. When we chose him, we knew who he was: very competitive, focused, he does his job like a specialist."
With Everton pushing for Europe, they may need to bring in players with experience at the highest level, and the 29-year-old fits the bill, having made a combined 37 appearances in the Champions League and Europa League, while also picking up 27 caps for Spain.
The defender has averaged 4.9 clearances per 90 in La Liga this season, the highest number in the Atletico squad, while also displaying his ability in possession by averaging 50.2 accurate passes per 90, which ranks him in third.
Atletico Madrid's Robin Le Normand and Atletico Madrid's Marcos Llorente celebrate with teammates
As such, Le Normand could be the ideal addition to Everton's backline, but he is not the only defender on their radar...
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Everton may look to strengthen their full-back ranks before the end of the January transfer window.