In profile: Everton FC transfer target Tom Cleverley

Blues are hopeful of completing a free transfer for the midfielder this summer.

Aston Villa's Tom Cleverley (right) and teammate Fabian Delph look dejected after the final whistle during the Barclays Premier League match at Villa Park, Birmingham.

Who? Thomas William Cleverley

Age: 25

Previous clubs: Bradford City, Leicester City, Watford, Wigan, Aston Villa

Current club: Manchester United

Nationality: English

International caps: 13

Strengths: Tom Cleverley is an intelligent midfielder capable of playing in a number of roles. Probably best deployed as an advanced midfielder, Cleverley can chip in with goals and assists drifting in behind the frontmen. The 25-year-old was born in Hampshire, brought up in Bradford but made his name at Manchester United. He flourished under Sir Alex Ferguson, but struggled under David Moyes and was sent out on loan by new manager Louis van Gaal.

Link with Everton: Everton are hopeful of tying up a deal for Cleverley when his contract expires in June. Arsenal and Southampton are credited with an interest, as are current club Aston Villa, but Roberto Martinez's close ties to Cleverley could mean he ends up at Goodison Park.

Last time v Everton: Cleverley gave the best audition possible with a match-winning performance for Villa in their 3-2 victory over the Toffees in early May. Cleverley rifled in the third goal to secure the three points for the Villians.

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