MEDIA WATCH

What The Papers Say - 31 December

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

On the eve of the opening of the mid-season transfer window, an abundance of transfer rumours continue to circulate.

Barcelona's Phillipe Coutinho continues to be linked with a move to Everton, with Catalan outlet Sport stating "time is of the essence" should the Blues wish to sign the Brazilian. The source believes Flamengo have joined the race to sign the midfielder.

The Athletic claims Newcastle United will have a January clearout, with four players set to move on from the side.

Everton boss Rafa Benitez wishes to sign one of them being Sean Longstaff, according to reports. The pair worked together during the Spaniard's spell with the Magpies and is said to be a long-term admirer of the 24-year-old.

Another midfielder who has been linked with a January switch is Juventus' Aaron Ramsey. The Welshman has featured only five times this season and Eurosport writes he will be allowed to leave the Serie A side next month for a low fee or on a loan deal.

The news outlet believes it is more a matter of when rather than if the former Arsenal man returns to the English game.

Finally, following reports on Thursday linking Cenk Tosun with a move to Besiktas, Turkish outlet Sabah states that negotiations have begun between the two clubs.

Besiktas, who are are currently ninth in the Turkish top-flight, parted ways with manager Sergen Yalcin earlier this month and continue to seek his replacement.