Everton transfer news: January move for Derby’s £15million-rated young England prospect Will Hughes
Premier League clubs are on red alert with Hughes already rejecting new Rams deal with Everton looking to steal march on rivals
EVERTON are plotting a move for Derby midfield star Will Hughes, SunSport understands.
The talented 21-year-old academy product has rediscovered his form after a missing most of last season with injury, as the Rams push up the table to get back into the promotion shake up.
Hughes current deal expires in 2018 and the East Midlands club are keen for Hughes to commit his long term future to the club he made his debut for in 2012.
But the midfielder rejected the Rams new contract offer and is prepared to sit tight to see what the next 12 months holds.
Liverpool were very keen on the England Under-21 star a few years ago before he suffered a frustrating year of injuries.
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SunSport have been told Toffees boss Ronald Koeman who is keen to add some midfield quality to his ranks in January and has earmarked Hughes as a potential target.
Rams boss Steve McClaren who only returned to the club in October will be desperate to hold on to Hughes, Derby are on a great run unbeaten in nine games winning eight a drawing one to go within a point of the play off places.
A premium will be put on any fee for Hughes due to his age and being a home grown player, so if Derby were to cash in the bidding would start at around £15million.
Koeman is expected to be busy in January with Manchester United duo Morgan Schneiderlin and Memphis Depay due to move to Goodison Park.
United will allow the Frenchman to leave next month, but are keen to recoup as much of the £24m shelled out for the Frenchman from Southampton in 2015.
West Bromwich Albion are in talks with United, but Everton will make their move to reunite the 27-year-old with his former Southampton boss Koeman.
While Depay who has failed to live up to his billing could move on a permanent basis or potentially move to Everton on loan.