Manchester City boss Mark Hughes won't take 'no' for an answer as he pursues Everton defender Joleon Lescott.

The Manchester Evening News says Hughes is determined to strengthen the heart of his defence and his attacking spearhead before the squad reports back for pre-season training next month.

The City chief knows, too, however that even though Everton would be making a healthy profit, he may have a hard time persuading the Europa League-bound Merseysiders that they should part company with Lescott.

Toffees' boss David Moyes would have to go into the market himself because Phil Jagielka could be out of action until Christmas after injuring his knee playing against City.

If hard cash does not persuade Everton to part company with the defender for whom they paid Wolves £5m, then Hughes has a number of players he could offer in part exchange including striker Jo who spent time on loan at Goodison last season.

Cash-strapped Everton may find it hard to resist City's spending power and possibly the desire of Lescott to join City.

Lescott's representatives know, too, that their man would increase his earning power greatly by moving along the M62.