Everton identify ex-Arsenal midfielder as Wilshere alternative

Everton will reportedly consider a Bosman move for Besiktas midfielder Oguzhan Ozyakup, should they fail to land Arsenal's Jack Wilshere in the summer.

Wilshere, 26, has reached an impasse in contract talks with the Gunners, and he is likely to be available on a free transfer when the season comes to a close.

Though the Toffees are deemed favourites to sign Wilshere, they are said to have a back-up choice in place in the former of Besiktas captain Ozyakup.

Similarly to Wilshere, Ozyakup is expected to be out-of-contract at the end of the season, and the Turk is being identified as one of the players, who can bolster the Toffees midfield.

The Dutchman has also been watched by Chelsea and ex-club Arsenal much earlier in the season, but neither appear keen on signing up the midfielder, who has been in-and-out of the Besiktas lineup of late.

Everton are currently placed ninth in the Premier League standings, but their hopes of European football are very much alive with just three points separating them from seventh-placed Burnley.