Blackpool linked with loan swoop for up-and-coming Everton prospect

According to website Football Insider, the 21-year-old has held talks over sealing a season-long move to Bloomfield Road.

The DR Congo youngster had been named in Everton’s extended squads prior to the conclusion of the Premier League season but is likely to head out on loan next term to gain regular game time.

While Baningime failed to feature for Everton’s first-team during the 2019/20 campaign, he did make three appearances for the Under-21 side in the EFL Trophy.

This included an appearance in the Toffees’ second round defeat to Fleetwood Town.

While the Seasiders have bolstered their central midfield options with the recent signing of former Sunderland man Ethan Robson, Neil Critchley’s men are still short on options and depth.

Matty Virtue is the only other player likely to be considered a first-team regular, with the likes of Cameron Antwi and Ben Garrity untested in that position at League One level.

Despite featuring in eight of Everton’s final nine matchday squads after the lockdown, Baningime is unlikely to force his way into Carlo Ancelotti’s plans with the likes of Andre Gomes, Fabian Delph and Tom Davies all ahead of him in the pecking order.

Baningime, who reportedly came close to joining Danish side Brondby last summer, is contracted to Everton until the summer of 2022.

The defensive midfielder made just one appearance for Wigan Athletic during a brief loan spell during the 2018/19 season, where he linked up with his brother Divin.