Everton manager David Moyes has issued local rivals Liverpool a warning to stay away from defender Leighton Baines this summer.

Since moving to Everton in 2007, Baines has cemented his place as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League and possibly Europe, thanks to displays that have alerted the attention of big-spending Manchester City and European giants Bayern Munich.

Merseyside rivals Liverpool – who have had first-hand experience of his talents – have also been linked with the England international, in a bid to correct their problem at left-back. And the Reds have previous when it comes to signing players from the Toffees with both Abel Xavier and Nick Barmby making the switch across Stanley Park in the past.

However, ahead of Saturday’s game against Baines’ former side Wigan, Moyes has reassured fans that he has no intentions of selling one of Goodison Park’s prize assets.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, the Scot said: “I can’t see it. It’s not for me that one and I think Liverpool know that as well.

“Nobody will leave the club unless I give it the go-ahead and that won’t change.

“We have signed Leighton on a five-year deal. I don’t want to sell him and Everton don’t sell cheap.

“The chairman looks after the players and gives them what he can. So Leighton’s not for sale – and they know that as well.”

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