Everton have been dealt a potential blow in their pursuit of Blackburn Rovers forward Ben Brereton Diaz, with Sevilla said to be leading the chase for the 23-year-old.
The Chile international has maintained his impressive form of recent times by scoring eight goals in the Championship so far this season, having found the back of the net on 22 occasions last term.
Frank Lampard's side were linked with Brereton Diaz during the summer but failed to strike a deal for the talented forward, whose stock continues to rise with each passing week.
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Due to being out of contract at the end of the campaign, Blackburn are are 'willing to listen to offers' in January as they look to avoid the prospect of their star man departing on a free transfer, according to Football Insider.
Sevilla are said to be the side in 'pole position' to recruit the EFL marksman and find themselves in a position of power due to their manager's background within the game. Jorge Sampaoli recently returned to take charge of the Spanish club but previously worked as the coach of Chile for four years. Sampaoli is understood to have heard good reviews on the striker from members of the national team, which could influence his decision over whether or not to launch an official proposal.
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