Everton have identified Badou N’Diaye as one of their top targets this summer, with the Premier League club in talks to sign the Stoke City midfielder.

According to Football Insider, N’Diaye is looking to leave Stoke, who are preparing for their return to the Sky Bet Championship, with Everton and Marco Silva identifying him as a top summer target.

The 27-year-old midfielder only arrived at the bet365 Stadium in January, costing Stoke a huge £14m.

However, in his 13 Premier League appearances, the Senegal international managed just two goals and was unable to help Stoke suffering relegation back to the Championship.

As Stoke prepare for the Championship, Gary Rowett is resigned to losing the midfielder ahead of the new season.

N’Diaye has attracted interest from Turkey, as well as Wolves, however, it is Everton who are now in pole position to secure the 27-year-old’s service.

The midfielder’s current teammates are preparing for the start of the Championship season, which begins this weekend.

Stoke travel to Elland Road on Sunday afternoon to take on Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United in one of the Championship’s standout fixtures of the opening weekend.

The Verdict   

It looks like Stoke will be losing N’Diaye this summer and it is down to the club to get the best possible fee for his service.

In January he cost £14m, so Stoke should still be looking for a decent fee.

If they can get a good fee out of Everton, this could help balance the books after some big summer spending from Rowett.

How much would you pay for N’Diaye? Let us know your thoughts!