Everton poised to move for Jagielka

Jun 29 2007 by Nick Smith, Liverpool Daily Post

Phil Jagielka (158)

SHEFFIELD UNITED have re-iterated their confidence that Phil Jagielka will stay if they have their relegation reversed.

Everton are poised to bring the midfielder to Goodison Park for the release clause of £4million. But that will only be activated if an arbitration panel looking into West Ham’s punishment for breaking Premier League transfer rules last season upholds their fine.

An announcement – which is not expected to give Sheffield United a reprieve by paving the way for West Ham to be docked points – had been due today, although could now be delayed until next week. But whenever the decision is made, Blades chairman Terry Robinson has acknowledged that Jagielka has chosen Everton as the Premiership club he wants to join.

However, he has also confirmed that if they do manage to win their fight to stay up, which will be prolonged even further if the arbitration panel order a re-trial, Jagielka will be going nowhere.

“We’re waiting to see the outcome of the arbitration,” Robinson said. “If Sheffield United are reinstated, it’s highly unlikely that Phil will leave.

“If we’re not re-instated, then he’ll invoke the clause in his contract. If we’re re-instated we wouldn’t even be having this discussion.

“I spoke to Phil’s agent this morning and we’re all singing from the same hymn sheet.

“Everton are the favourites – it is Phil’s preferred choice. Wigan and Bolton have shown some interest in him, as have Everton.”