Marseille bid to scupper Everton pursuit of Cameroon star Mbia

Marseille hope to beat Everton to the signing of Rennes midfielder Stephane Mbia.

New Marseille coach Didier Deschamps – the former Chelsea midfielder – is a keen admirer of the Cameroon international and has sanctioned a £7.7million bid.

David Moyes has been tracking the imposing midfielder for more than a year and had hoped to finally bring him to Everton this summer for about £6m.

Arsenal showed an interest in January, but the 23-year-old is ready to sign on at Goodison Park if the club’s can agree a fee.

Marseille sporting director Jose Anigo met Rennes general manager Pierre Dreossi this week but his club are holding out for a fee in excess in £10m.