GERMAN GIANTS WANT ME - XAVIER

The 29-year-old Portuguese international is currently in talks with Everton about a proposed new deal, but talks have faltered and now he is been strongly linked with a move away from Goodison.

Reported interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Sunderland seemed to suggest that he may stay in England, but it now seems that the competition for the former Benfica star is intense.

Sources are even suggesting that the German clubs count attempt to puruse Xavier when the Bundesliga transfer window re-opens in January.

"My agent Peter Wolfram is talking with Borussia Dortmund, Schalke and Hertha Berlin they are great clubs, with great fans," revealed Xavier.

"Even before moving to England they were interested in me, but I preferred to join Premier League at that time."

Xavier will now hold further talks with Everton, but it seems the former PSV Eindhoven, Benfica, Bari and Celta Vigo star could be tempted by the Bundesliga -  the only major league in Europe he is yet to play in.

The flamboyant defender, who can also play in midfield, moved to Everton in 1999 in a £1.4 million deal from PSV.

However, Toffees boss Walter Smith told the club's website that the club had offered Xavier a new deal and was unsure about the reports that he wants to move away.

"I don't know about these reports," said Smith. "The Club have made an offer to the player, which he is currently thinking over and we await the outcome of that.

"So far the player and his agent are aware of Everton's intent to try and keep him here at Goodison Park.

"I don't know if there is interest from elsewhere, but it is obviously premature. We will not be letting the player go before the end of the season when he is free to leave."