Michael Ball reckons Everton fans would prefer to see Jesse Lingard head to Goodison Park than Ross Barkley seal a return.

Rafa Benitez is looking to bolster his squad after replacing Carlo Ancelotti in the Everton hotseat.

The Toffees have welcomed Andros Townsend, Asmir Begovic and Demarai Gray to the club during the transfer window, but Benitez has been linked with a host of creative midfielders.

Manchester United's Lingard is thought to be on Benitez's wishlist after impressing during a loan spell with West Ham United last season.

The 28-year-old scored nine goals and registered five assists in 16 appearances for the Hammers.

Everton - along with West Ham and Newcastle United - are also keeping tabs on Barkley.

The central midfielder left Goodison Park for Chelsea three-and-a-half years ago, with the £15million deal being completed after Barkley confirmed he wanted to leave Everton.

Ex-Toffees left-back Ball believes Everton fans would rather see Benitez target Lingard instead of Barkley.

He exclusively told The Transfer Tavern: "I think the fans would probably push more towards Jesse Lingard considering what he did last season.

"He seemed to be the guy in form and nearly broke into the England squad for Euro 2020.

"They're the type of players that we want to bring to the club because Everton want to try to close that gap. Those types of players can do that."