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    Everton join Arsenal in the race to buy Ashley Williams from Swansea

    Everton join Arsenal in the race to buy Ashley Williams from Swansea

    Everton have emerged as rivals to Arsenal’s bid to sign Swansea defender Ashley Williams.

    New Toffees manager Roberto Martinez is keen to be reunited with Williams, whom he signed from Stockport five years ago when he was in charge of the Swans.

    Arsenal remain the first-choice of £8million-rated Williams, but this fresh interest from the Goodison Park club could serve to drive up the asking price.

    The Gunners, who made an enquiry about Williams in January, are expected to table an official bid for the 28-year-old Wales international within the next fortnight.

    With doubts over the future of injury-prone Thomas Vermaelen’s future at the north Londoners, Wenger sees Williams as having the leadership qualities to be the hub of his defence.

    Although Swansea would like £10m for their skipper, it is understood a bid of around £8m would persuade them to sell.

    Italians Napoli, whose new boss Rafael Benitez is keen to strengthen his defence, are also in the mix.

    Benitez was said to be hugely impressed by Williams when Swansea beat his Chelsea side over two legs in last season’s Capital One Cup semi-finals.

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