Arsenal have rejected Everton’s £30 million bid for midfielder Alex Iwobi, Sky Sports reports.

The 23-year-old Nigerian international is under contract at the Emirates until 2022 and made 35 Premier League appearances last season, scoring three goals and assisting seven.

However, Sky reported Everton are expected to return with an improved offer before the transfer window closes at 5pm on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Everton have ended efforts to sign Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure.

It is understood Everton are now considering alternative targets after their second bid of £36.7 million was turned down on Tuesday.