Source: SKY_Sports
City to increase Lescott bid
Sky Sports News understands Manchester City are to make an improved bid for Everton defender Joleon Lescott within the next 24 hours.[LNB] Money-rich City had a £15million offer for the England player rejected by the Toffees earlier in July after confirming their long-term interest in the 26-year-old.[LNB]Lescott's versatility is viewed as essential by City boss Mark Hughes as he attempts to strengthen his rearguard before the start of the new Premier League season, while a £16m deal for Arsenal's Kolo Toure is also close to completion.[LNB]Hughes has already signed midfielder Gareth Barry and forwards Roque Santa Cruz, Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor as he plots an assault on the top four.[LNB]The City boss has now turned his attention to his defence and, after failing in his attempts to sign Chelsea captain John Terry, has identified Lescott as his prime target.[LNB]Long-term potential Lescott moved to Everton in 2006 in a £5m transfer from Wolves, who he joined as a trainee in 1999.[LNB]The Toffees will be able to offer European football next season after David Moyes' side qualified for the Europa League via a fifth-placed Premier League finish.[LNB]City ended 2008/09 in 10th and failed to qualify for Europe, but Lescott could be tempted due to the long-term potential at Eastlands and a reportedly superior salary.[LNB]Everton could be persuaded to sell one of their most profitable assets in order to raise transfer funds amidst links with Leeds' midfield ace Fabian Delph.[LNB]Moyes, though, is unlikely to want to allow one of his star defenders to leave after previously admitting that his squad lack strength in depth for centre-backs.[LNB]
