Everton open talks with Manchester United's Tom Cleverley over summer move

Everton have reportedly opened talks with Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley's representatives over a summer move to Goodison Park.

According to the Liverpool Echo, Roberto Martinez is keen on strengthening his midfield in the summer and has identified the English midfielder, who is a free agent once his contract with the Red Devils expires at the end of the month.

Louis van Gaal has made it clear that Cleverley is not part of his plans and will be allowed to leave to a club of his choosing in the summer.

The England international spent the entire 2014/15 campaign on loan at Aston Villa and the Birmingham based club have made their intentions to retain him on a permanent basis very clear.

The 25-year-old is out of contract and has attracted attention from clubs in England and across Europe, with the report claiming that certain Bundesliga outfits have contacted the player over a move abroad.

But Cleverley has hinted that he could remain with the 2015 FA Cup finalists next season, after admitting that happiness trumps money and Tim Sherwood will be delighted as the former Tottenham manager is keen to keep him at Villa Park.

"I've really got to like playing for this club in the last few months. This manager, you have to give him credit for getting me where I am over the last few weeks," Cleverley said.

"I feel like I'm playing in my best position, confidence is high. Not only among myself but also amongst the team. All those factors help. I'm happy and playing with a smile on my face."

However, Martinez is hoping that Cleverley can be tempted after the duo developed a good relationship when the Spaniard managed the midfielder at Wigan Athletic during the 2010/11 campaign.

The former Wigan boss is keen to wrap up his transfer activity early, ahead of their trip to Singapore for the Barclays Asia Trophy, and the report claims that Cleverley is one of the four recruits the Toffees manager wants to bring in this summer.