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The Blues have been granted a work permit to secure Lacina Traore on loan.

A statement on the club's official website tonight said: "Everton confirm it has been granted a work permit for Lacina Traore.

"Talks are ongoing with Monaco to secure the 23-year-old's services."

Discussing a potential move for the 6 ft 8 Ivorian striker earlier this week, Toffees boss Roberto Martinez said: “He is someone who would fit in really well in the role that we want.

“There are a couple of hurdles that we need to get through.

“The work permit is something that we need to look into. If we can get through that, he would be a player that I would be very keen to add to the squad."

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*More on this: Martinez admits Blues on verge of sealing Traore loan