Everton have a clever tactic up their sleeve to sign £43m Champions League star ahead of rivals

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Everton can now turn their attention to their big plans for the summer transfer market.

After a quiet January window, David Moyes is finally going to be able to put his stamp on the squad after inheriting a group of players from Sean Dyche.

The Toffees secured a valuable point against Arsenal on the weekend which has all but secured their Premier League survival.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
12	BrentfordBrentford	31	12	6	13	51	47	4	42
13	Man UtdManchester United	31	10	8	13	37	41	-4	38
14	TottenhamTottenham	31	11	4	16	58	45	13	37
15	EvertonEverton	31	7	14	10	33	38	-5	35
16	West HamWest Ham	31	9	8	14	35	52	-17	35
17	WolvesWolves	31	9	5	17	43	59	-16	32
18	IpswichIpswich	31	4	8	19	31	65	-34	20

With just eight games remaining this season, Everton sit 15 points clear of Ipswich Town who occupy 18th position in the table.

Moyes is aware Everton are safe from the drop as it would now take somewhat of a miracle to keep Ipswich afloat.

As the weeks wind down, the summer transfer window is now on the horizon and Everton will need to be busy.

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Everton showing interest in David Hancko

As the Blues look to bolster their defence, Everton are showing a keen interest in David Hancko of Feyenoord.

Questions remain over the likes of Michael Keane whose contract is set to run out at the end of the campaign.

According to Caught Offside, Everton could land a bargain deal for Hancko this summer if they’re able to wait until later in the window.

The Toffees are not the only side in the running to sign Hancko, with the likes of Chelsea also making contact over the Slovakia international.

Feyenoord are said to be open to offloading Hancko but they will be looking for around €50m (£43m).

However, if Hancko is not snapped up quickly, there is the belief that valuation could quickly fall.

Everton are also eyeing up Maxime Esteve from Burnley this summer as they aim additions to their backline.

But the Toffees could find themselves priced out of a move for Hancko with some big clubs in the running.

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Hancko may be eyed as potential Jarrad Branthwaite replacement

Although it is not what fans will want to hear, Everton are receiving Jarrad Branthwaite interest ahead of the summer.

The defender has played a key role in Everton’s impressive defensive record this season, despite the outside noise.

But it has been suggested Branthwaite wants to play European football next season as he eyes a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

Although the 22-year-old has been informed he does not need to leave Everton to seal a spot in the national side, the speculation continues to grow.

And a player like Hancko – who already has European experience – could prove a suitable replacement if Branthwaite is to leave.