EVERTON could be lining up a shock bid to take Burnley's number two Colin Harvey back to Goodison Park.

But Clarets boss Adrian Heath is mystified by the reports and claims he knows nothing about any approach from the managerless Premiership club.

According to sources on Merseyside, Harvey is being head-hunted by Goodison chairman Peter Johnson and the Everton supremo wants Harvey as youth team coach.

Heath said: "I came in to the office this morning and the first I knew was what I saw in a couple of national newspapers.

"I swear I don't know anything about an approach from Everton for Colin Harvey. I cannot deny or confirm anything because the whole thing is news to me."

If Harvey rejoined Everton it would leave Burnley searching for a new assistant boss just eight weeks after Harvey succeeded John Ward at Turf Moor.

Heath added: "I know Everton are restructuring their coaching staff and Colin may be part of those plans." Harvey managed Everton from 1987 to 1990 and was later assistant to Graeme Sharp at Oldham Athletic before the pair quit Boundary Park last season.

Meanwhile, Heath said he was encouraged by his weekend trip to Holland where he watched two potential targets in action.

Heath was keeping their identities under wraps today but says he expects to follow up his interest in at least one player.

"The player I am particularly interested in is a 26-year-old defender, is keen to come and play in England and I'm due to speak with him again next week.

"Colin Harvey watched the player the week before and he was also impressed with what he saw.

"I know that one of the players is interesting a Division One club in England so we want to keep our interest quiet."

Heath is also closing in on a domestic target and added: "We've had fresh talks with the player's agent and we are hopeful of something happening.

"Most players are still keeping their options open at this time of the season. I can understand that because they are not just going to jump in at the first offer. But we have got irons in the fire and we are actively pursuing several possible targets."

Colne Clarets are running a trip to Northern Ireland for Burnley's pre-season tour. Details from Tony on (01282) 863946 before 5pm or (01282) 864953, evenings.

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