Joleon Lescott is on his way to Manchester City after they and Everton confirmed that a deal had been reached for the England defender.
The move, which is subject to a medical and Lescott agreeing personal terms, is thought to be worth in the region of £24 million.
After John Terry decided to stay at Chelsea, Everton offered £15m for Lescott which was then upped to £18 million. Both bids were rejected by Everton boss David Moyes, who insisted that the player wouldn’t be allowed to leave.
Two weeks ago, Lescott made a transfer request which was turned down and he was subsequently dropped after Everton’s 6-1 home defeat by Arsenal on the first day of the Premier League season. He hasn’t played since.
A statement on Everton’s website said:
After the earlier bid, there was a change in the player’s attitude.
It was in the best interests of Everton if they allowed him to leave.
Chairman Bill Kenwright has worked tirelessly to get the best deal for Everton, achieving a substantial increase on Manchester City’s original offer.
It leaves Moyes with Joseph Yobo as his only fit recognised centre-back as Phil Jagielka remains a long-term absentee with a knee injury and just a week to find a replacement before the end of the transfer window.
