Everton have dismissed reports of takeover interest.

Spokesman Ian Ross said: "To suggest that Everton will suddenly open its arms to any would-be investor or buyer should the 'Destination Kirkby' project be given a green light is wholly misleading simply because our chairman has made it clear at every AGM going back five years that that kind of search has been going on consistently during that time and will continue to do so.

"Bill has never attempted to hide the fact that he does not have the funds to move the club to where he and the supporters want it to be: at the forefront of the English game.

"Logic dictates that any club that can boast a stadium which is modern and capable of expansion will represent a more attractive proposition to investors. However, to suggest that there is some sort of link between confirmation of a move to Kirkby and the prospect of serious negotiation with would-be suitors is totally wrong."