Everton warned off Yakubu

Sources at Goodison Park confirm that the club have made an enquiry about the 26-year-old Nigerian striker but insist no formal bid was made for the player, who is valued at more than £11million.

But Middlesbrough have made it clear that the player is not for sale and Everton are now very unlikely to continue their interest.

Yakubu is believed to have had showdown talks with Boro' boss Gareth Southgate on Wednesday, and expressed his uncertainty about his future at the Riverside.

But with the Barclays Premier League season just two days away, Boro made it very clear to their much-wanted hitman, that he is not for sale.

Several clubs have tracked Yakubu this summer, including Manchester City, West Ham and Portsmouth. Now Everton have become involved, but the answer to all enquires has been the same - no deal.

Everton still hold out hope that they can produce a deal for Benfica's midfielder Manuel Fernandes, but they would be sure to make certain that the third party involvement with the player was not a problem of the kind West Ham found themselves in over Carlos Tevez.

Everton are still chasing the player, who spent the second part of last season on loan with the Merseysiders.

But although Benfica only own 50% of the international, Everton - if they could negotiate a deal - would want to buy the player outright with no strings of the kind MSI had with West Ham.

The sticking point is the price. Everton would consider £8million, but Benfica have stated that they want £12million. Manchester City are still interested, but such a fee is beyond what Everton would want to pay.