Everton are confident of hanging onto star defender Joleon Lescott after he was linked with Manchester United and Arsenal this week.

Although having only signed Lescott 18 months ago, Everton began moves two months ago to offer the player an improved deal, says the Daily Post.

But with no new contract having yet been agreed, title rivals United and Arsenal are closely monitoring developments with Gunners manager Arsene Wenger in particular a known admirer of Lescott.

Everton, though, are hopeful Lescott will put pen to paper in the near future and become the latest player to commit his long-term future at Goodison.