With Southampton signalling their willingness to negotiate, the decision now lies with Everton. Accepting the counter-offer could trigger a deal that would see Dibling move to Goodison Park in a matter of days. However, there is always the risk that holding out for a better price could allow rival clubs to step in.

Everton have had three bids rejected for Tyler Dibling, who has been left out of the last two Southampton matchday squads

Southampton have made a second counter-offer to Everton about forward Tyler Dibling after rejecting three bids from the Toffees for the 19-year-old England Under-21s winger. (Florian Plettenberg)