Everton chairman Bill Kenwright said: “We have been negotiating with Arsenal for the transfer of Philippe. Nothing has been concluded yet but talks are ongoing.”

Senderos was signed by Arsene Wenger in 2003, but spent last season on loan at AC Milan where he made 15 appearances.

A report on the Swiss Football Federation website stating the deal has already been done is premature.

Everton are bracing themselves for a fresh bid from Manchester City for Lescott, who informed the club on Monday of his desire to leave.

City have already failed in offers of £15m and £18m, and are expected to increase that figure to £22m.

But with Phil Jagielka sidelined until November, Everton manager David Moyes is adamant Lescott will not be allowed to depart during the current transfer window.

A hip injury ruled Lescott out of Sunday’s 2-2 friendly draw at Coventry City, and he was again absent at Blackpool last night.

On the bench for Everton was Cody Arnoux, a 21-year-old American who has been offered a one-year contract.

Arnoux, a striker, scored 13 goals in 16 games for Carolina Dynamo in the fourth tier of football in the United States.

He will form part of the reserve squad once the transfer has been ratified by the Football Association.