Leighton Baines, Everton FC
EVERTON FC have not received any contact from Manchester United despite persistent speculation the Red Devils want to sign Leighton Baines this summer.
Reports surfaced yesterday claiming Old Trafford chief executive David Gill had opened negotiations with Bill Kenwright over a deal for the England defender, but that is not the case.
It is not the first time national newspaper stories have linked Baines with a switch to United.
Rumours began again last month after the emergence of one errant report that Alex Ferguson was weighing up a £5m bid – on the morning the Toffees damaged the his Premier League title hopes by holding United to a 4-4 draw on April 22.
But the ECHO believes Baines, who has three years left on his current deal, is not pushing for a Goodison exit – and sources close to United have cast doubt over whether he is a bona fide target.
Ferguson does need cover for Patrice Evra, 31, with left-back Fabio Silva set to be allowed to join Benfica on loan next term.
But with the Scot planning to strengthen his squad in a number of areas, it remains to be seen whether he would be willing to pay in excess of £15m for a player only four years younger than respected France international Evra, who managed 47 appearances last season.
Why is this happening? Find out more about the shortage of Everton shirts and hoodies.