Everton have made a £5million move for Tottenham centre back Federico Fazio.

The Argentina international had been talking to West Bromwich Albion before talks broke down at the weekend.

Everton have moved swiftly as they prepare for the possible departure of John Stones, who put in a transfer request on Tuesday afternoon following three failed bids from Chelsea.

Everton have made a £5m bid for Tottenham defender Federico Fazio, who is keen to move to Merseyside

Fazio had been in talks with West Brom over a permanent move but the defender could now join Everton

Albion had not given up on the Fazio deal but Everton have now stepped in with a bid and the 28-year-old is keen to join the Goodison Park club.

Fazio could team up with compatriot Ramiro Funes Mori from River Plate. The Argentina international was at Goodison on Sunday ahead of a proposed £6m move also but his deal has been held up as the club try to iron out work permit issues.

Everton lost Sylvain Distin and Antolin Alcaraz at the end of last season and are keen to boost their options in central defence.

They have yet to concede defeat in the battle to keep Stones but know Chelsea will offer around £35m plus players in a bid to get a deal done before next Tuesday and the 21-year-old is ready to leave.

John Stones, pictured tussling with Manchester City's Sergio Aguero, handed in a transfer request on Tuesday