Ronald Koeman is yet to make a signing despite arriving at Everton in June

Gueye has been in talks with Southampton and Marseille this summer

The 26-year-old was available on the cheap following the club's relegation

Everton have met the release clause of Aston Villa midfielder Idrissa Gueye

Everton have met the £7.2million release clause in Idrissa Gueye’s contract as Ronald Koeman attempts to sign the Aston Villa midfielder.

But Villa can hold out for a higher fee should Gueye take his time agreeing terms, with other Premier League clubs believed to be interested in the Senegal international.

The 26-year-old was one of the few success stories at Villa Park last season, ranking behind only N’Golo Kante for interceptions and also placing near the top for tackles.

Everton have activated the £7.2million release clause of Aston Villa midfielder Idrissa Gueye

IDRISSA GUEYE: 2015-16 STATS Appearances: 35 Interceptions: 140 Tackles: 108 Minutes played: 3076 Advertisement

Leicester looked at Gueye before bringing in Kante last summer and may be tempted to reprise their interest after the France international moved to Chelsea for £30m.

Everton’s new director of football Steve Walsh, formerly Leicester’s head of recruitment, looks to be making a swift impact at Goodison Park.

Gana signed for Villa from Lille for £9m last summer but will be allowed to leave after relegation activated a low release clause in his contract.