Everton have reportedly 'cooled' their interest in Udinese defender Rodrigo Becao.
The Blues have continued to be linked with the Brazilian defender in recent months, who helped his current employers enjoy a stunning start to the Serie A season after winning six of their opening eight fixtures.
Under contract until 2024, Becao has caught the eye of clubs after a string of strong displays that have driven up his transfer value. Frank Lampard's side were said to be part of the conversation, but Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has offered a fresh update on Everton's alleged pursuit of the player.
READ MORE: 'We're there again' - Frank Lampard makes 'tough' Everton relegation fight admission
READ MORE: New signing breaks duck, penalty woes and 50-goal glut - Everton's previous trips to Australia
Speaking to Caught Offside, Romano has stated talks are not currently ongoing between Everton and Udinese regarding a potential deal. It is added Becao was an option for the Toffees in the summer, who have now reportedly turned their attention elsewhere.
It last month emerged that that Udinese were hoping to secure at least €20m (£17.6m) for the Brazilian should both parties come to a mutual agreement of parting ways, either in January or next summer.
Everton's current centre-back partnership is of course Conor Coady and James Tarkowski, with the Blues possessing the option to acquire the former on a permanent basis. One player who looks likely to need replacing in this position is Yerry Mina, who will become a free agent at the end of the current campaign unless offered a fresh deal.
READ NEXT:
- Goodison Park's top 10 non-Everton occasions as new stadium set for major boost
- Worrying Everton trend leaves Frank Lampard's priorities clear amid 'naive' transfer warning
- Conor Coady expresses gratitude to Frank Lampard and backs Jordan Pickford after Everton error
- Three blunt questions Frank Lampard must answer during World Cup break amid Everton 'crisis' claim
- Tim Cahill delivers 'difficult' Frank Lampard verdict amid Everton struggles