Carlo Ancelotti could become the next Everton manager after a deal was agreed in principle between the Italian and the Premier League club, according to reports in the British media.
Everton have made former AC Milan, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich manager Ancelotti their top target to fill the role left vacant after the sacking of Marco Silva earlier this month.
Ancelotti, who was recently sacked by Serie A side Napoli, arrived on Merseyside on Monday to continue talks over the prospect of taking charge at Goodison Park. According to Sky Sports News, his appointment could be confirmed as soon as Wednesday before Everton's League Cup quarter-final against Leicester City.
However despite the reports, Everton released a statement on Monday evening to say that a number of candidates have been evaluated but no decision has yet been made.
As well as Ancelotti, Shanghai SIPG manager Vitor Pereira was thought to be in the running, although the Portuguese reportedly withdrew his name from consideration. Former Everton manager David Moyes is also thought to be in the running.
"In the 11 days since Marco Silva left the club, the Everton board has been working to recruit a new permanent manager - and has held meetings with a number of candidates," Everton said in the statement.
"We can confirm that thus far no contract offer has been made and no candidate has chosen to withdraw from the process.
"While the club is keen to confirm a new permanent manager as soon as possible, the only important duty is that the right appointment is made.
"While our process continues, Duncan Ferguson will remain as caretaker manager and will take charge of the side for Wednesday night's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Leicester City."
Should Ancelotti take the reins at Everton, he will take with him plenty of pedigree having also managed Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid.
The 60-year-old former midfielder has won league titles in Italy, England, France, Spain, and Germany, and is a three-time winner of the Uefa Champions League - twice with Milan (2003 and 2007) and once with Real Madrid in 2014. In total, Ancelotti has won 13 major trophies during his managerial career.
