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Arsenal join Manchester United in battle for Everton star Marouane Fellaini
EVERTON are braced for another top-four club to test their resolve for midfielder Marouane Fellaini - after Arsenal registered their interest in signing the £24 million man.
Bill Kenwright has revealed that while Everton will fight to keep hold of £10m Manchester United target Leighton Baines and the rest of Roberto Martinez's squad, he is powerless to stop Fellaini leaving Goodison Park.
Manchester United manager David Moyes has been tipped to return to his former club to sign Baines and Fellaini - although Arsenal are now expected to challenge the Premier League champions for the Belgian's signature.
The 25-year-old has a £24m release clause in his Everton contract, confirmed by Kenwright when he admitted: "We all know there’s a player who’s got an escape clause", referring to the former Standard Liege player.
The Toffees remain defiant that they are under no pressure to sell any of their squad this summer, but while the board can hold firm over Baines, Fellaini's future is less secure.
It is thought that that to activate the clause in his contract a bidding club has to be in the Champions League - meaning United and Arsenal won't be blocked in making an offer.
Chelsea have also tracked the big-haired Belgium international, who scored 12 goals last season.