Everton are 'knocking on the door making enquiries' and have held talks with Anthony Elanga's representatives as they are keen to land the Manchester United star at Goodison Park, journalist Simon Phillips has told GiveMeSport.

Toffees boss Frank Lampard is looking to bolster his squad during the January transfer window as they aim to climb away from the Premier League's relegation zone.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update

Everton transfer news - Anthony Elanga

According to the Daily Mail, Everton are among a number of Premier League clubs to have set their sights on signing Elanga on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

The report suggests Lampard was eager to lure the Sweden international away from Manchester United during the summer, but his interest has not gone away and he is hopeful of eventually getting his man.

Everton are paying particular attention to the loan market due to financial constraints and Elanga has admirers at Goodison Park.

The 20-year-old's £43,000-per-week contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2026, but he has become frustrated at his peripheral role under Manchester United chief Erik Ten Hag.

Respected journalist Phillips recently told GiveMeSport that Lampard is pushing the Everton hierarchy to sign a new striker, while Elanga would offer an alternative option in the attacking third of the pitch.

What has Simon Phillips said about Elanga?

Phillips understands that Everton have upped the ante in their pursuit of Elanga and made enquiries over whether a January deal would be possible.

The journalist believes the Merseyside outfit are holding discussions with the winger's representatives ahead of offering a route out of Old Trafford for the remainder of the season.

Phillips told GiveMeSport: "Everton are knocking on the door making enquiries. They are in the early stages.

"They are speaking to his agent regarding a loan move, I believe, at the moment. That's the proposal they want to put together for him."

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

Would Elanga be a good signing for Everton?

According to FBref, Elanga has registered more assists and a better pass completion rate per 90 minutes than current Everton wide-men Anthony Gordon, Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend since the campaign got underway.

That emphasises the Manchester United man could make the Toffees more dangerous in the final third of the pitch while also being comfortable in possession.

The fact Elanga boasts Premier League experience, having chalked up six goal contributions in 34 top flight appearances, is an additional attraction for Lampard as it means he would not need to be given time to adjust to the rigours of the division.

Manchester United teammate Bruno Fernandes has previously described the Swede as a 'top kid' and hailed his performance levels.

Everton need to climb away from danger and a loan move for Elanga could be a shrewd piece of business.

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