23.08.2004 - Everton linked with Reds pair

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Reports today have linked Everton with moves for Liverpool defenders Djimi Traore and Steve Finnan.

Traore's agent, Willie McKay has confirmed that Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has contacted Liverpool about the possibility of signing the Frenchman.

"I know Bill Kenwright has contacted Rick Parry about Djimi and an offer has been made," said McKay.

The offer is reportedly in the region of £1million, for a player who has made 75 appearances for Liverpool, with 49 of those made during the 2002-3 season which also included 20 clean sheets.

But after Stephane Henchoz's return to fitness, and Gerard Houllier's decision to play Igor Biscan at centre back, Traore found it difficult to break into the team last season, and he is unlikely to feature heavily in Rafael Benitez's plans this season.

Another player who could find his first team chances limited this year is Steve Finnan, with David Moyes also said to interested in signing the Republic of Ireland full back.

Finnan has featured in each of Liverpool's three competitive games this season, but has seen his right back place taken by new signing Josemi, and with a trio of midfield signings arriving in the past week, his starting place in the Reds' midfield is now under threat.

The 28-year-old, who was signed for £3.5million only a year ago, has also attracted the attention of Blackburn and Tottenham in the past few days, and would be allowed to leave should a satisfactory offer be received by Liverpool.