Lescott has been linked with big-spending City for several weeks, but this is the first time that the Eastlands club have tested Everton manager David Moyes’ claims that none of his squad will be sold this summer.

Lescott was a key part of Everton’s run to the FA Cup final, and won England caps under Fabio Capello last season.

City, who have spent over £50m on Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz and Gareth Barry already this summer, want to pair Lescott with Chelsea and England skipper John Terry in their defence.

But with the Terry deal looking increasingly unlikely, Everton have now made it clear that they do not want to sell the former Wolves defender.