Merson turns his sights on Walsall

Walsall are on the brink of the biggest transfer coup in their history after emerging as surprise candidates to sign former England forward Paul Merson from Portsmouth.

Pompey manager Harry Redknapp revealed yesterday that two Midlands clubs were in the running for the 35-year-old ex-Arsenal and Aston Villa star. West Bromwich confirmed they had been approached, but manager Gary Megson rejected Merson's overtures to link up with him at the Hawthorns.

However, it appears that Walsall boss Colin Lee will benefit from Merson's desire to continue his career in the Midlands. Merson continued to live near Sutton Coldfield even when playing for Portsmouth but the travelling has worn him down.

Redknapp is unsure about his ability to perform in the Premiership, although Merson himself has always maintained that he wants to keep playing as long as he is physically able.

He hopes to agree a settlement on the remaining year of his contract with Portsmouth, allowing Walsall to afford his wages.

Everton manager David Moyes refuses to accept defeat in his pursuit of Sean Davis and will lodge a bid of around £3.5million for the Fulham midfielder later this week.