Everton identify Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony as replacement for Manchester United target Romelu Lukaku

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has identified Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony as a replacement for Romelu Lukaku, if the latter leaves the club in the summer. The Belgium international's future at Goodison Park remains uncertain as he looks to make a switch after the end of the season.

Pep Guardiola will take the managerial role at the Etihad, replacing Manuel Pellgrini in the summer. The Mirror reports Bony will not be included in the former Barcelona manager's plan at City and he will allow the striker to leave the club.

This situation has alerted the Merseyside club and the Toffees are looking to make an approach for the Ivory Coast frontman. His first team opportunities at the club have been limited this term as he started in only 11 matches in the league, scoring four goals in the process.

Lukaku has been on an impressive run for Everton this term, scoring 18 goals in the Premier League. His form has attracted interest from clubs in England and abroad. He has already expressed his desire to play in the Champions League next season.

Another report from the Mirror claims that Everton fear the former Chelsea man will join Manchester United in the summer, even if they fail to finish in top four. The Red Devils sealed a 1-0 victory over Lukaku's side at Old Trafford on 3 April and that saw them move to fifth spot in the league table with 53 points, one point behind fourth place Manchester City.

Sacked Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is the favourite candidate to replace Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford after the end of the season. The opportunity to reunite with his former manager has reportedly tempted Lukaku to prefer United over other clubs.

With Lukaku's future set to be away from Everton, Martinez has already started looking for replacements. The Spaniard believes Bony is the ideal candidate to replace the 22-year-old striker at Goodison Park.