Source: SKY_Sports
Hughes still chasing Lescott
Mark Hughes has confirmed that Manchester City are still actively pursuing Joleon Lescott, although he accepts that the final decision over a possible deal will rest with Everton.
Hughes is determined to bolster his defensive options ahead if the new season and turned his focus on Lescott after missing out on Chelsea captain John Terry.
City have already failed with two bids for Lescott but Hughes has not yet given up hope of signing the 26-year-old.
"We are still trying to speak to the people that will ultimately make the decision on whether or not the deal continues," Hughes said on Sky Sports News.
"I think those conversations are still taking place but how long they will stay active is open to debate."
Everton rejected a written transfer request from Lescott earlier this week and have made it clear that the England international is not for sale.
Hughes does not believe Lescott's desire to join City increases the likelihood of a move actually going ahead.
He explained: "It comes down to the club themselves and if they feel they don't want to do a deal they are within their rights to do that and we respect that, irrespective of the player himself and how he feels about it."
Meanwhile, Hughes has to assess the fitness of Emmanuel Adebayor ahead of the opening game of the season after the Togo striker picked up a groin problem.
He will hope everyone else returns from international duty unscathed, although Vincent Kompany and Roque Santa Cruz are definitely out.
"Emmanuel Adebayor has got a slight issue with his groin that needs checking out but apart from that we are OK," Hughes added.
