Manchester United are launching a bid for Everton fullback Leighton Baines. The Mirror says United supremo David Gill has contacted Goodison chief Bill Kenwright to open the bidding.

The Old Trafford club are prepared to pay £12 million for the classy defender.

Kenwright does not want to lose Baines and will ask for more - with £15 million the least the Toffees will accept - but the negotiations are now on.