There has been a steady stream of players moving from Everton to Manchester United down the years including Tim Howard, Darron Gibson and Tom Cleverley in modern times.
And that stream of talent looks as if it may well continue this month with Everton battling it out with West Brom for the signature of Morgan Schneiderlin.
Meanwhile Memphis Depay has also regularly been linked with a January move. And Everton may just take three players off United’s hands if the latest reports have substance.
British media outlet, The Daily Star (via Sky), reckons that Arsenal and Everton are in for the England international.
Arsenal and Everton are interested in Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, according to the Daily Star.
Smalling has been in and out of the Manchester United team this season and it’s not completely clear whether Jose Mourinho trusts him.
With speculation continuing to suggest that United could sign Victor Lindelof from Benfica and Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Eric Bailly doing so well in defence for the club, Smalling’s position in the sqaud is potentially tenuous.
But he would be an excellent addition for an Everton side who still rely to a degree on the ageing talents of Phil Jagielka.
Smalling was imperious for United last season and what he arguably lacks in finesse with the ball at his feet, he more than makes up for with his aerial ability, pace and athleticism. He is a top Premier League defender and it’s hard to imagine Everton fans not being satisfied with such a purchase.
But if Arsenal are also keen Everton could face a losing battle for the services of the England international.
Everton fans: a quality signing?