Baines Aware Of United Talk

Everton defender Leighton Baines admits he is aware of speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United.

Baines, who was a member of England's Euro 2012 squad, is thought to be a top target for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson this summer.

The 27-year-old is flattered by the rumours, but he insists he is not reading too much into the reported interest from Old Trafford.

"I've been aware of what's been said in the press but I don't know much beyond that," Baines said. "It doesn't do any harm [to be linked] but it doesn't do any good either.

"It's just one of those things that tends to swing around this time of year. People put two and two together sometimes they get four and sometimes they get three or five. It gets other people more excited than those involved."

Baines is one of a number of Everton players linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer, but the full-back hopes Everton can keep hold of their best players.

"Obviously over the years the manager has lost players that I am sure he would have liked to have kept hold of," added Baines.

"Whether the club has needed the money or whether it's because they have received what they consider is a considerable bid for a player they have always done good business.

"The manager has done well in bringing people in at a certain amount and when they have moved on he has tended to double his money or more.

"The club have always been quite savvy in that sense.

"It has never really hindered us and it's never seen us getting any worse.

"But maybe it would be nice to see us hang on to those players and add a couple."