Everton FC Transfer Rumour Mill: Martinez confident Baines staying, United … – Liverpool Echo

14 Aug 2013 12:13

Leighton Baines is staying at Everton says Roberto Martinez

Everton FC boss Roberto Martinez is adamant that Leighton Baines will not join Manchester United this summer.

David Moyes has been linked with a swoop for the left-back but Martinez insists a £12million bid in June was United’s ‘final offer’.

Team-mate Marouane Fellaini has also been tipped to follow Moyes to Old Trafford but the new Toffees boss insists Baines will not be heading for the exit.

‘Before we went to Austria one club officially contacted ourselves with an offer and it was a final offer,’ Martinez said. ‘They put something over and the valuation wasn’t anywhere near the quality of Leighton Baines.

‘That was the end of it but since then there’s been all the speculation, which has been part of what the transfer window is.

‘There’s never been another club or anyone else putting in an offer for Leighton. Since then we’ve moved on and we’re continuing to focus on the start of the season.’

View gallery

Everton beat Real Betis in final pre-season friendly (pics: Gareth Jones)

View gallery

Meanwhile, Everton will reportedly demand £30million from Manchester United for Fellaini should the Red Devils make an official approach.

The former Standard Liege star had been available for £22m last month due to a release clause in his contract but that has now expired and the Merseyside club want £30m to part with the 25-year-old.

Finally, Ajax defender Toby Alderweireld could miss out on a move to the Premier League by joining Spartak Moscow. The Belgian, who is a transfer target for Tottenham and Everton, is the subject of a £6million offer from the Russian side.

“I now understand that they (Spartak) have made Ajax an offer for me.” said the Belgian. “Only when the clubs are granted permission (to talk to me) will I think.

Exclusive – Manchester United drop Baines chase.

Gerard Deulofeu needs time but he’ll make things happen says Blues boss

[View the story “Everton FC rumour mill – 2012/2013” on Storify]