Everton have reportedly emerged as the leading contenders to sign Manchester City winger Adam Johnson on loan.

The 25-year-old, who has slipped down the rankings at the Etihad Stadium, has more recently been linked with a temporary move to Liverpool, which could involve a swap deal with Reds defender Daniel Agger.

While Liverpool were thought to be the front-runners to clinch the England international, it appears that the blue half of Merseyside have expressed an interest following a personal meeting between City boss Roberto Mancini and Everton manager David Moyes, according to The Metro.

Reports have claimed that the Premier League champions are willing to let Johnson leave on a season-long loan to pick up more first-team football.