Journalist Pete O'Rourke has said that Kevin Thelwell's connections with Wolves 'can only help' in Everton's pursuit of Daniel Podence in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Everton interested in Podence

It was reported in October that the Toffees' sporting director is looking to bring the 27-year-old to Goodison Park from his former club in January.

Everton want to sign versatile attackers who are proven in the Premier League, and the Portuguese wide man fits that profile.

The Latest: Thelwell could be key

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke claimed that Thelwell's connections at Molineux will give the Merseyside club a 'boost' in their pursuit of Podence.

The journalist said: “I think Thelwell’s close relationship with Wolves can only help in their pursuit of Podence.

“We’ve already seen how well he’s worked that relationship in the summer to help Everton sign Conor Coady on loan from Wolves and that looks like a real masterstroke right now.

“He’s been a key man for Frank Lampard’s side, so I think Thelwell’s connections with Wolves will only boost their chances of a potential deal for Podence.”

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The Verdict: Worked with Coady...

Thelwell likely had a big say in bringing Wolves captain Conor Coady to Everton on loan, and he could do the same with Podence.

The £60,000-per-week winger has not been the most prolific in the English top flight but has plenty of experience in the division (Transfermarkt), so he should need little time to adapt to playing in Frank Lampard's side if he comes to Goodison Park.

Hailed by pundit Noel Whelan as a player who is 'direct' and has 'pace', Podence ranks in the 81st percentile for progressive passes out of all wingers in Europe's top five leagues over the past year, and he would certainly add another dimension to the Blues' attack.

Indeed, with his current deal expiring in 2024, they could potentially sign the 27-year-old for a cut-price amount in January.