Roberto Martinez’s move to Everton has moved a step closer after Wigan chairman Dave Whelan confirmed the two clubs have agreed a compensation payment.

The Spaniard held talks with Everton chairman Bill Kenwright last week and a deal has now been agreed to buy out the remaining year of Martinez’s managerial contract.

Whelan told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I’ve reached some terms with the chairman, Bill, of Everton about six o’clock this evening. He can now talk to Everton because Bill and myself have sorted the compensation.”

Martinez, linked with the Everton vacancy almost as soon as David Moyes’ departure to Manchester United was confirmed, had already held talks, with Whelan’s permission, but is now free to discuss terms.

Elsewhere, Jesus Navas is on the verge of becoming the first signing of the impending Manuel Pellegrini era at Manchester City.

The Sevilla and Spain winger is close to a deal that will take him to the Premier League for £17m, plus a further £4.6m based on performances, of which the Spanish club believe £2.9m is virtually guaranteed.

The length of his contract and his salary are not yet known but sources suggest that he will earn more than double the amount he earned in La Liga, where he was reportedly on £2.1m a year.

Navas will travel to the Confederations Cup with Spain later this month as a City player. Following Sevilla’s final game of the season on Saturday manager Unai Emery said: “All the signs are that Navas will leave. It is the best thing for Navas.”

Navas said: “I am open to anything and I want to win titles. City is a team I like a lot.”

Now, the deal only awaits the final signatures. The 27-year-old believes he is ready to move abroad having fully overcome the anxiety attacks that marked the early stages of his career.
Guardian Service