Everton target Billy Gilmour had a ‘really close relationship’ with manager Frank Lampard during their time together at Chelsea, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Toffees had a quiet start to the transfer window but now appear to be closing in on some of their targets after already snapping up James Tarkowski, Dwight McNeil and Ruben Vinagre.

What is the latest news involving Everton?

90min have reported that Lampard is a ‘great admirer’ of Gilmour and that the Everton hierarchy are in talks over his potential switch to the club from Chelsea.

The report also states that the 15-cap Scotland international’s teammates Ross Barkley and Michy Batshuayi are also on the Merseyside outfit’s radar as their boss looks to exploit his contacts in west London.

It’s claimed that Everton are eyeing permanent moves for both Barkley and Batshuayi, although 90min don’t state whether Gilmour is likely to leave on loan or a long-term deal.

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye appears to be closing in on a return to the blue half of Merseyside, while Lille's Amadou Onana is also on their radar, though, and whether that affects Everton’s pursuit of Gilmour remains to be seen.

What has Phillips said about Gilmour?

Phillips has informed GiveMeSport that he can ‘definitely’ envisage Gilmour departing Stamford Bridge this summer and that he is a player who Lampard ‘really likes’.

In an interview with GMS, he said: “Billy Gilmour is definitely one that I can see going, Lampard really likes him.

“Lampard had a really close relationship with him and Batshuayi when he was at Chelsea, so that's why he's pushing for both of those two the most at the moment.”

Would Gilmour be a good signing?

Gilmour showcased his true potential with a Man of the Match performance for Scotland against England last summer at Euro 2020 and could bring a much-needed element of control to the middle of the pitch for Everton.

However, the diminutive technician was unable to find his best form during a difficult loan spell at Norwich City last term, starting just 21 Premier League fixtures as the Canaries suffered relegation.

Yet a reunion with Lampard could prove to be extremely beneficial for all parties, especially Everton, who would acquire the services of an immensely talented 21-year-old capable of helping them climb up the table.

It remains to be seen if Everton can snap up the £28,000-per-week gem, but the club’s supporters will surely be hoping they can get this deal over the line.