Everton's pursuit of Espanyol striker Felipe Caicedo has reached an advanced stage, according to a report in Spain.
The Ecuador international has recently been linked with a switch to Swansea City and West Ham United.
However, Mundo Deportivo claims that it is now the Toffees that currently lead the race.
The report adds that Everton are prepared to meet the £7.5m release clause in the 27-year-old's contract.
Caicedo scored just seven goals during a two-year stint with Manchester City between 2007 and 2009.
