Everton are interested in signing Hoffenheim pairNiklas Sule and Sebastian Rudy, according to theDaily Mirror.
The Toffees have scouted both Sule and Rudy, both of whom have become important components in Julian Nagelsmann's starting lineup at Bundesliga club Hoffenheim.
Despite the signing of Ashley Williams from Swansea in the summer, Everton have looked suspect at the back in recent matches, conceding nine goals in five Premier League matches, with the majorityof those strikes coming in the 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Chelsea.
Sule, 21, has been identified as a potential transfer target, having impressed during the early part of his career, playing for the Germany team during the 2016 Rio Olympics before earning a full international cap in August.
With players such as Williams and Phil Jagielka heading towards the twilight of their careers, Everton are hopeful of attracting some younger talent to the club, and Sule could be available on the cheap, with the centre-back in the final year of his current contract.
While Everton boss Ronald Koeman has the likes of Idrissa Gueye, Gareth Barry and James McCarthy at his disposal in central midfield, he is looking to bolster his options in the middle of the park, with Rudy rumoured as a potential option.
The 26-year-old has grabbed two assists in 10 Bundesliga matches so far this season, and has also played for Germany 12 times.
Everton are currently seventh in the Premier League, six points behind fourth placed Arsenal as they look to fight for Champions League qualification this season.