The Toffees spent a similar fee on Michael Keane last summer, but the former Burnley star has failed to justify his price tag.

Sam Allardyce's job is far from secure, but the Mirror claims Lascelles, who has impressed under Rafa Benitez as the Magpies secured survival after promotion last year, is now a prime target.

Chelsea and Tottenham have also shown an interest in the 24-year-old, who signed a six-year contract last October.