Exclusive: Everton open preliminary talks to sign 28-yr-old as they work to blow Newcastle away
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Exclusive: Everton open preliminary talks to sign 28-yr-old as they work to blow Newcastle away

Wayne Veysey
Wayne Veysey

Founder & Managing Director AUTHORITY Former chief correspondent at Evening Standard, Goal and Press Association with nearly three decades in national, regional and digital news and sports journalism. Wayne directs the network’s news strategy and high-level operations. FOCUS Editorial direction for the 11-site network and newsroom management. THE BRIEF Wayne oversees the network’s editorial standards across the network. He provides the final sign-off on all headline scoops, ensuring content across all platforms meets the standards required for a high-velocity newsroom.

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EXCLUSIVE By Harry Talbot

Everton have opened preliminary talks with Danny Welbeck about making him a high-profile free transfer signing this summer, Football Insider understands.

The England international, 28, is out of contract at Arsenal next month and is looking for a new club after snubbing their efforts to secure him to an extension last summer.

A source close to the player has told Football Insider there is widespread interest in Welbeck from clubs home and abroad and Everton are keen to win the battle for the versatile forward ahead of other suitors including Newcastle United.

Early discussions have taken place with the England international's representatives about convincing him to move back to the north-west following five years in London.

Football Insider revealed at the start of last month that the Merseysiders had set their sights on winning the race for the Manchester United academy product even though he has missed most of the season with a broken ankle.

Everton regard Welbeck as as a proven performer available at a bargain price and one who can play anywhere across the forward line, either as a spearhead or in a wide forward role.

Welbeck has been sidelined since November but has been back in training for some time and has flown out with the Arsenal squad for Wednesday's Europa League final against Chelsea in Baku.

The England international has 42 caps as well as extensive Premier League and Champions League experience. For the Gunners, his 126 appearances have yielded 32 goals as well as 15 assists.

In the latest Everton news, it can be REVEALED that the Merseysiders are "confident" of a £10m profit as Silva green lights big-money player sale.

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