Yakubu move to Everton in doubt

Aug 21 2007 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

Footballer Ayegbeni Yakubu _158

EVERTON’S move for Ayegbeni Yakubu is in danger of collapsing after Middlesbrough hiked up their asking price for the striker to £12.5million.

David Moyes was confident of capturing the Nigerian after launching an £11m bid for the 24-year-old last week.

Middlesbrough have resigned themselves to losing Yakubu, with the player having been withdrawn from the squad that travelled to play Fulham at the weekend.

But the chances of him switching to Goodison decreased yesterday with Middlesbrough elevating the price tag to a value Everton are presently unwilling to meet.

Everton, who nevertheless remain hopeful of still thrashing out a deal, were clear favourites to sign the forward, but the likes of Manchester City and Portsmouth are now thought to be monitoring developments.

The Teessiders are seeking the highest possible price to help finance Gareth Southgate’s squad rebuilding in attack.

Boro last week began preparing for life without Yakubu by signing Mido from Tottenham Hotspur, and were yesterday linked with a £6m move for Heerenveen’s Brazilian forward Afonso Alves, who finished top scorer in Holland last season.

Everton are also waiting on clearance from the FA and Premier League to complete the signing of midfielder Manuel Fernandes from Benfica.

Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has reiterated his desire to force his way into the Spanish national squad despite his latest snub.

Arteta was once again overlooked by Spain coach Luis Aragones for this week’s friendly in Greece. But the 25-year-old refuses to give up on appearing for his homeland, and believes he can make the breakthrough while playing for Everton.

“I must try to get better and better and then we will see,” said Arteta.

“There are many good Spanish players in my position so I must work hard.

“There is a price to pay for choosing not to play for one of the big four.

“Maybe I’d have a better chance with the Spain coach if I’d moved, but I’m happy with my choice.

“If you play well and are successful, the prizes will follow.”

Joseph Yobo has pulled out of the Nigeria squad for their friendly international against Macedonia this week.

The centre-back missed Saturday’s defeat at Reading with a groin problem, and now faces a battle to be available for the weekend visit of Blackburn Rovers.