Everton granted work permit for Lacina Traore

Everton have confirmed that transfer target Lacina Traore has been granted a work permit.

The Blues are in talks to sign the tall Monaco forward, and manager Roberto Martinez admitted that he was "very interested" in signing the player.

A statement on the club's website read: "Everton confirm it has been granted a work permit for Lacina Traore. Talks are ongoing with Monaco to secure the 23-year-old's services."

Traore is now expected to join before next Friday's transfer deadline.