Report: Everton to join Virgil van Dijk race

Everton will reportedly compete with Southampton for the signature of Celtic's Virgil van Dijk, if John Stones leaves this month.

Stones has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea and it is rumoured that the Toffees will let the former Barnsley defender leave, if their £34m price tag is met.

According to The People, Roberto Martinez will turn his attention to signing Van Dijk from the Scottish Premiership champions, having identified the Dutchman as the ideal replacement.

However, the Saints may have already stolen a march on their Premier League rivals, having already tabled an £8m bid.

While Celtic boss Ronny Deila is thought to be keen on keeping Van Dijk, that has not put off Everton or Southampton, who are said to believe that the player is keen on a move to England.