Agent cools Arteta exit talk

Mikel Arteta's agent claims it will be 'difficult' for the midfielder to leave Everton amid reports Sevilla are planning a bid for him.

The 28-year-old has repeatedly been tipped to return to La Liga and speculation has linked Sevilla with a £12million offer.

Sevilla's sale of Adriano to Barcelona has left the club short of options in midfield and Arteta has been mooted as their prime transfer target.

However, the former Rangers star's representative, Inaki Ibanez, cast doubt on the prospect of Arteta leaving Goodison Park this summer.

Ibanez told the Spanish press: "Everton are asking for a lot of money, so it is difficult for Mikel to exit the club."