The England defender has been a long-time target of Manchester City, but Everton manager David Moyes has remained adament that Lescott is not for sale.

Despite City having two bids of $25 and $30 million rejected by the Merseyside club, manager Mark Hughes is still determined get his man.

“We are still trying to speak to the people who will ultimately make the decision over whether or not the deal continues,” he said. “Those conversations are still to take place, but how long they will still be active is open to debate.”

Hughes is keen to strengthen his squad’s defense after already splashing out heavily on a star-studded strike force. Should the bid for Lescott fail, he will likely move for West Ham’s Matthew Upson and Porto’s Bruno Alves, both of whom have been strongly linked with a transfer to Eastlands.

Source: ESPN

Dempsey Pens Fulham Extension

American midfielder Clint Dempsey has extended his stay at Craven Cottage, which was due to end after this season.

The US international had a difficult time making his way into the first team after his arrival in January 2007, but last season he became a consistent starter in Roy Hodgson’s side. Dempsey made 28 starts in the league last season and helped Fulham finish 7th – qualifying them for the inaugural Europa League.

He was also a key player this summer for his country as the United States made an unlikely run to the Confederations Cup final, beating European champions Spain along the way.

Source: BBC

Aquilani’s Liverpool Debut Delayed

Liverpool new boy Alberto Aquilani will have to wait for his Anfield baptism as he is sidelined for several weeks through an ankle injury.

“It is a shame I cannot play straight away but it is important to get better, then play well. I am focusing on that,” he said.

He joined the Merseyside club from Roma for a reported $33 million this summer after Xabi Alonso moved to Real Madrid.

His time in Italy was consistently interrupted by injuries, and this poses somewhat of a concern to Liverpool supporters given the extremely physical style of the Premier League.

Manager Rafa Benitez may have some shuffling to do in his midfield as skipper Steven Gerrard is also doubtful for the club’s season opener against Tottenham on Sunday.

Source: ESPN

Seena Vali is a U.S. based writer for World Soccer Reader, having joined the staff in April 2009. He covers the English Premier League and writes WSR’s Manchester United blog “United Watch”.

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