In a separate development, Everton have inquired about Aston Villa winger

Anwar El Ghazi.

Last week Benitez said France international Digne “doesn’t want to be

here”, having not made any starts for Everton since 1 December.

Several clubs registered their interest in the left-back, including Newcastle

United, Chelsea and Serie A clubs, but Villa appear to be in the driver’s seat

for his signature.

Dutch winger El Ghazi signed for Villa in 2019 after a season on loan at Villa

Park from Ligue 1 side Lille.

The 26-year-old has made 71 Premier League appearances for the Villains,

scoring 15 goals, but has mostly been used as a substitute since the arrival of

manager Steven Gerrard.