Everton officials fly out for talks to seal deal for €16m-rated defender

Everton officials have reportedly flown out to Barcelona to hold talks for a deal to sign Lucas Digne.

Sport reports that Barcelona are standing firm on their €16 million evaluation of the player, as Marco Silva looks to reshape the Toffees defence.

The report claims that the player is keen to complete a move as he goes in search of regular playing time, but the club must now meet Barcelona’s asking price to conclude a deal.

Silva has already confirmed his interest in bringing the Frenchman to Goodison Park.

Everton are now looking to close a deal after having their first offer rejected by the La Liga champions.

The player is currently in the United States with the rest of the Barcelona squad, despite a move appearing to be close.

The Toffees have been searching for a long-term replacement for Leighton Baines, who is reaching the latter stages of his career.