Argentinian Diego Milito prefers Genoa to Goodison
EVERTON'S hopes of signing Diego Milito have suffered a setback after the Real Zaragoza striker declared his preference for a move to Genoa.
Milito is one of several players Goodison manager David Moyes has been tracking as he attempts to bolster his squad during the summer transfer window.
Everton were alerted to the 29-year-old Argentine forward's availability after Zaragoza's shock relegation from Spain's Primera Division last season.
Moyes is prepared to offer Milito a 12-month loan deal, with newly-promoted Stoke City and Tottenham Hotspur also thought to be interested in the player.
But Milito last night expressed his desire to return to Serie A side Genoa, where he enjoyed an impressive 18-month spell after moving to Italy in January 2004.
"I'd like to return to Genoa," said Milito, who has scored 51 goals in 108 league games for Zaragoza. "It would be beautiful, although I don't know if that possibility exists.
"I have to see what Zaragoza want, it all depends on them.
"For my part, I am at the club's disposal and I have to return for the first day of training next Monday. Everything else is in the hands of my agent."
Milito's representative Fernando Hidalgo confirmed earlier this week that he has not yet received an 'interesting' offer for the player.
However, Everton could make an official approach given Andrew Johnson's Goodison Park career is coming to an end.
Wigan Athletic have been in contact with Goodison officials over the striker, and are willing to pay £10million for the 27-year-old.
While Moyes has publicly stated Johnson is not for sale, a departure is almost certain with the England international having fallen behind Yakubu in the striking pecking order.
Sunderland have also asked about Johnson, but the player's desire to remain in the North West makes the JJB Stadium a far more appealing destination.
Moyes is hoping to strengthen throughout his team and is ready to step up his pursuit of Manchester United's Darren Fletcher.
The Goodison Park manager acknowledges the need to replace the departed Lee Carsley and, having already assessed a clutch of top-rated midfielders, has now earmarked Fletcher.
Scotland international Fletcher has entered the final year of his contract and is likely to be available for around £5m, but prising him away from Old Trafford could prove tricky with Sir Alex Ferguson having assured the 24-year-old he will "play his part" for United during the forthcoming campaign.
Everton youngster Connor Roberts has been called up to the Wales under-17 squad for this month's Four Nations tournament in Sweden. He joins club team-mate Nathan Craig for the games against Turkey and Norway.
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