Everton Football Club News

• Nickname:Toffees
• Founded:1878
• Manager:David Moyes

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Atletico keen on Arteta

07 Feb 2007 - 12:59:19

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Reports in Spain suggest Atletico Madrid and Real Zaragoza are interested in signing Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta.

The 24-year-old has spent the last two years at Goodison following a disappointing time with Real Sociedad, and the player's father hopes he will soon return to Spain.

Atletico director Miguel Angel Gil Marin is believed to have watched Arteta play in Saturday's stalemate and the player's father said: "Mikel desires to be a success in Spain after his bad experiences at Real Sociedad."

Arteta has been omitted from the Spain squad for the friendly against England and thinks he may have to return to his homeland to boost his international chances.

He said: "It would have been very special to make my debut against England, but I am not frustrated.

"There are many players in Spain that play in my position."