Richardson: Attracting interest from Everton

The 27-year-old had been a loan target for Arsenal in January but Arsene Wenger's attempt to lure the versatile midfielder was blocked.

West Ham are also set to enter the race for Richardson but it is Toffees chief David Moyes who has made the first contact about the midfielder who has 12 months to run on his contract.

Moyes is a long-time admirer of the England international and believes his ability to play in a number of positions will make him a valuable addition to the first-team squad.

Richardson is keen to embark on a new challenge and would welcome the chance to play for a club that regularly challenges for the European football places.

The former Manchester United starlet, who has eight caps for England, has not given up hope of playing for his country again having memorably scored a brace on his debut against the United States in 2005.