Chelsea And Manchester United Locked In £20M Struggle For Everton's Jack Rodwell - Report

The teenager has caught the eye with his composed, tough-tackling displays since making his Premier League debut in March last year, and is now a regular starter in David Moyes' midfield.

It was reported recently that the Blues of Stamford Bridge - who are expected to spend big this January before their transfer ban comes into effect - had lodged an unsuccessful £14 million offer.

The Red Devils, meanwhile, are thought to view the 18-year-old Scouser as an ideal replacement for the ever-injured Owen Hargreaves, and rate him at around £16m.

However, Moyes and the Toffees board will not lightly part with one of England's most promising prospects, as it is understood that they won't even consider bids of less than £20m.

Rodwell - also linked with Manchester City - penned a new contract in February that ties him to Goodison Park until 2014.