Everton are said to be 'highly interested' in Hoffenheim midfielder Dennis Geiger, according to reports.
The 24-year-old has been with the German club since the start of his career, but could now be open to a move elswhere.
And German Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has claimed that the Blues are one of several clubs showing strong interest, albeit they will face competition from other Bundesliga clubs and also Portuguese giants Benfica.
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Plettenberg Tweeted: "X News #Geiger : SL Benfica & Everton highly interested in the 24 y/o central midfielder. Some Bundesliga teams too. Tendency at this stage: No contract extension at Hoffenheim, free agent 2023. Talks with all parties ongoing. Current salary around €1.5-2m/year."
Everton have been linked with a move for Geiger before. Back in 2019, Sport1 claimed via the same journalist that both the Blues and Manchester City were showing interest in the then 21-year-old, although no concrete talks ever materialised with either English club.
The versatile German is often deployed as a defensive midfielder and has made 15 appearances for Hoffenheim this season, scoring once.
He will be free to talk to other clubs from January, but if Everton were to wait until the end of the season, they could potentially have the opportunity to acquire their man on a free transfer.
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