Fellaini has played a vital part in Everton's meteoric climb up the Premier League table this season, scoring eight goals and notching three assists so far. His impressive performances have earned him a place on the shopping list of several clubs, with London sides Chelsea and Arsenal leading the chase.
Although the Belgian has stated that he would be willing to see out his contract with the Toffees if David Moyes requested it of him, he is believed to be open to moving to a bigger side. The Daily Mail reports that Fellaini requested for a release clause to be inserted into his current Everton deal when he signed the contract in the 2011, although the clause can only be triggered by a club playing in the Champions League.
The Toffees have refused to acknowledge or deny the presence of the 22 million pound buyout term, but Chelsea are convinced the clause exists. Club officials have identified central midfield as an area in dire need of strengthening, after Blues owner Roman Abramovich's refusal to offer veteran midfielder Frank Lampard a new deal, and are examining the Fellaini situation closely.
With his midfield lacking in physical strength, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is also considering whether to throw the Gunners' hat into the ring and provide Fellaini with an alternative option to Chelsea.
http://www.espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item917686/Report:-Blues,-Gunners-ponder-Fellaini-clause/ |