Everton join Liverpool in race for Alderweireld

Everton have joined the race to sign Ajax defender Toby Alderweireld, according to the Express.

The 24 year old has been a target for the Toffee’s city rivals Liverpool all summer, while last month the player rejected the chance to join Norwich City.

The Belgium international can play at centre-back or right-back, and has won 24 full international caps as part of a back line that includes Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, Bayern Munich’s Daniel Van Buyten and Jan Vertonghen of Tottenham Hotspur.

He has made 180 appearances for the Ajax since signing his first professional contract in 2007 -winning the league title in the last three seasons – and was named the clubs Talent of the Year in 2010.

Everton’s interest was confirmed by the player’s agent Soren Lerby, and should he sign he would become the fifth new arrival at Goodison Park under Roberto Marinez, who has already completed deals for former Wigan Athletic trio Arouna Kone, Joel Robles and Antolin Alcaraz, and Gerard Deulofeu from Barcelona.