New Everton manager Roberto Martinez wants to keep hold of club 'icon' Leighton Baines
Manchester United have already had a £12m bid turned down for the England defender but are expected to make improved offer.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Everton manager Roberto Martinez has labelled defender Leighton Baines as an ‘icon' as he attempts to fend off Manchester United from making a move for the left-back.
The club rejected a £12m offer from United last week, but it is widely expected that former Everton boss David Moyes will return with an improved offer for the England international.
The Toffees have stressed that Baines is not for sale at any price, and they are hopeful that he will sign an extension to the two years he has left with the club.
And Martinez, who took over at the helm following Moyes’ switch to Old Trafford, has underlined the 28-year-old’s importance to the club.
"I think Leighton is more than a player, he is an icon," he told the Liverpool Echo.
"He represents a lot about our football club and I am really, really excited about Leighton. This is a big season for him and for us as a club.
"When you are the left-back of this football club, and the level that he has been reaching over the last few years consistently, it shows me that he is the best left-back in the country.
"I can't wait to start working with him."
Martinez will be meeting with his players for the first time today as they report back for pre-season training, having made the switch from Wigan following their FA Cup triumph and relegation disappointment.
The Spaniard is believed to be tapping into the services of his former club as he attempts to complete deals for both Arouna Kone and Antolin Alcaraz from the Latics.
The deal for Kone could cost Everton around £6.5m, but Alcaraz will join on a free transfer once his contract is negotiated.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments