Everton want Bolton midfielder Kevin Nolan after missing out on Manuel Fernandes.
Boss David Moyes came unstuck when £12million target Fernandes did a late U-turn and opted for a move to Valencia.
Now he has switched his sights to Nolan although Moyes will face a £5m battle with Middlesbrough for his services.
Ironically, Nolan, 25, is a Liverpool fan but Everton are happy to put such obstacles aside.
Bolton might be prepared to do business because boss Sammy Lee is trying to change the clubÂ’s style of play.
Nolan has been unsettled by being played out of position wide on the left or right.
And although he returned to central midfield in the victory over Reading it may not be a permanent switch.
Fernandes’ decision has left Everton fuming especially as the Benfica midfielder — who had a successful loan period at Goodison last season — gave his word he would sign to chairman Bill Kenwright on Saturday.
Toffees chiefs made several attempts to contact him, only to find his mobile was turned off, and were staggered when Valencia announced he had signed a six-year deal.
