Everton are in talks with Nottingham Forest over a deal for teenage midfielder Brennan Johnson, as the club step up their search for the country’s leading young talents.

Johnson, 15, is the son of former Forest and Ipswich striker David and Everton have seen a number of bids rejected by the Championship club.

Everton want to sign the England under-16 international this season but have been told to pay around £1million, with director of football Steve Walsh now expected to enter negotiations. The deal could go to a tribunal if Everton fail to agree a fee.