Everton journalist Chris Smith has revealed that Kevin Thelwell is now 'in contact' over the potential signing of Jesse Lingard this summer.

The Lowdown: Busy window?

After the capture of James Tarkowski and the sale of Richarlison to Tottenham Hotspur, it seems as if the Goodison Park outfit are in for a busy July.

Thelwell was appointed as their Director of Football in February, and this is the first transfer window where he is taking the strategic lead for recruitment, so the 48 year-old will want to leave his mark and impress both Frank Lampard and the supporters.

The Latest: Lingard 'contact'

Taking to Twitter, Smith, Blues correspondent for 90min, has revealed that Thelwell and the Merseyside club are now 'in contact' over Lingard, but he is one of 'many' targets:

"Everton are in contact with Jesse Lingard, but he's one of many targets. The club would ideally like to have Richarlison replaced before they head to America."

The Verdict: No-brainer

Given that Lingard is out of contract, and is currently rated at £16.2m on the market, signing him on a free is surely a no-brainer for the Toffees.

Hailed as a ‘special’ player by David de Gea before leaving Manchester United, Lingard accumulated over 200 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 35 goals and making a further 21 assists (Transfermarkt).

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He caught the eye in his loan spell at West Ham United in the 2020/21 season, where he managed a total of nine goals and five assists in just 16 Premier League games (Transfermarkt).

If he can rekindle that kind of form for the Blues, then the Englishman would no doubt be a shrewd pickup on a Bosman deal, saving the Richarlison cash for other investments.