The views on this page are taken from the local and national media and do not necessarily reflect the views of Everton.

Friday’s Daily Telegraph and Daily Express report Everton have “opened talks” with Chelsea over the signing of France international centre-back Kurt Zouma.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell at Goodison Park in 2018-19.

Midfielder Andre Gomes also shone while on loan at the Blues last season and the Telegraph claims Everton have agreed terms with Barcelona over a permanent deal for the Portuguese.

The Liverpool Echo suggests Everton may be interested in signing Atletico Madrid full-back Santiago Arias.

The 27-year-old is currently in action for Colombia at the Copa America alongside Everton defender Yerry Mina.

The Daily Mail carries quotes from Leighton Baines, who has revealed his admiration for Director of Football Marcel Brands.

The left-back signed a new one-year deal with the Toffees on Wednesday and believes Brands can be the driving force in an exciting future for Everton.

“I have had numerous conversations with Marcel and I spent more time with him and got to know more about him towards the back end of last season and during the off-season,” Baines said.

“And I became more and more impressed with him from having that one-on-one time and understanding his vision and the direction he's trying to take the club.”