Everton

Arteta has been strongly linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer, with both Arsenal and Manchester City said to be keen, but Everton will do everything they can to keep hold of him.

City almost have a blank cheque book while the Gunners could also have plenty to spend if Barcelona come in and pay big money for Cesc Fabregas this summer.

Arsene Wenger sees Arteta as the perfect replacement should Fabregas head back to Spain and Blues boss David Moyes will be hoping the Gunners captain stays at the Emirates Stadium.

Just to make matters worse for Everton, La Liga outfit Sevilla are also in the hunt for a new midfielder and reports claim they would be ready to offer £12million for the player.

It would take double that to even tempt Everton and the player’s agent, Inaki Ibanez, says the kind of money the Blues are asking for will price most clubs out.

“Everton are asking for a lot of money, so it is difficult for Mikel to exit the club,” he confirmed.

Now everything hinges on whether someone comes in with a bid Everton cannot refuse. Moyes fought hard to keep Joleon Lescott at Goodison Park before losing him to City and history could repeat itself if City decide to get the cheque book out again.

Everton kick off the season away at Blackburn (Everton 8/5 to win) on August 14 and all Blues supporters will be praying Arteta takes to the pitch at Ewood Park.

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