Melbourne Heart have confirmed they are in talks with English Premier League club Everton for a pre-season clash in July. Heart chief executive Scott Munn said that discussions were underway to hold a match at the new AAMI Park in Melbourne when the Toffees travel down under to take part in a three-match friendly series.

Munn said the 'Tim Cahill factor' was a major boost for supporters of Australian football who may get along to the event.

''We've been contacted by their representatives and asked if we are interested and clearly we would be,'' he said. ''Tim Cahill is probably the hottest property in football in Australia and he is looking to come out.

''We would relish the opportunity. The time of year is when we are getting ready for the season commencement and a good hitout would be fantastic.''

Munn added that it would be a fantastic way to kick off the brand new franchise and build a strong supporter base.

''It would be fantastic,'' Munn added. ''To play an EPL team, at a time when we are coming to our first season, with Tim Cahill on the back of a hopefully successful World Cup, what a great way for us to engage our supporters early on.''