Everton have reportedly missed out on securing former boss Roberto Martinez as Rafael Benitez's successor, but are now considering Roma manager Jose Mourinho.
Belgium boss Martinez is in the final year of his contract with the national team, but the Belgian FA are believed to have refused to release the Spaniard from his current role with the World Cup approaching at the end of this year.
The Toffees were said to be willing to allow Martinez to perform a dual role, whereby he can continue his position at the Belgian FA while taking charge of the Premier League outfit, a proposal that has been denied.
According to The Mirror, discussions to replace Benitez at Goodison Park took place over the weekend and owner Farhad Moshiri is an admirer of Mourinho, who he will try to recruit into the Everton dugout.
Mourinho is currently aiming to help Roma into the European spots in Serie A, while other candidates like Frank Lampard are out of work and may be an easier, quicker solution.
Everton are sitting in 16th spot in the Premier League table, just six points above the relegation zone but do have two games in hand on Norwich City.
Sammy Wynne
