Transfer news exclusive: Leighton Baines sets his heart on reunion with David Moyes at Manchester United

England defender has asked Everton manager Roberto Martinez to agree a deal for move to Old Trafford

Sam Wallace
Wednesday 28 August 2013 23:12 BST
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Leighton Baines
Leighton Baines (GETTY IMAGES)

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The Everton defender Leighton Baines has asked his manager Roberto Martinez and the club's chairman Bill Kenwright to agree a deal to sell him to Manchester United, The Independent understands.

The left-back has been the subject of three bids from United this summer, for £9m, £12m and as part of a joint bid worth up to £30m, including Marouane Fellaini, all of which have been rejected. It is anticipated that United will bid for a fourth time before the transfer window closes on Monday.

Baines met with Martinez on the first day of pre-season to tell the new Everton manager that he wanted the club to negotiate a deal with United. Since then Baines, 28, has not missed a training session when fit and has played in both Premier League games so far this season. He was named as a substitute in Everton's Capital One Cup second-round tie against League One side Stevenage tonight.

Since that original meeting with Martinez, which followed United's first bid, Baines has reiterated his desire that Everton try to agree a deal. He has met with Martinez, on a number of occasions, and Kenwright. His position has not changed: he would like the opportunity to play for United, not least to play in the Champions League.

Baines' former manager David Moyes has prioritised the signing of the left-back since taking over at Old Trafford as Patrice Evra has only one year remaining on his contract. Baines has two years left on his existing deal.

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