Everton tempt Sacchi

Everton are switching their search for a manager to Milan's Arrigo Sacchi. The Goodison chairman, Peter Johnson, has made a discreet approach to the experienced coach, who took Italy to the World Cup final three years ago.

Sacchi, who still has a year left on his contract, has had a nightmare return to Milan this season and is expected to make way for Fabio Capello, who is leaving Real Madrid soon. The chance to move to Everton with millions to spend may appeal as his reputation is at an all-time low in Italy, where he walked out as the national manager to go back to Milan.

Johnson is coming under fire for his failure to replace Joe Royle. Bobby Robson has stalled about joining, George Graham will not quit Leeds, both Bryan Robson and Martin O'Neill shied away and a move for John Toshack was unpopular.

Blackburn's new manager, Roy Hodgson, is making France's Patrick Valery his first signing for Blackburn Rovers. The Bastia right-back flew to Ewood Park yesterday for contract talks and a medical. Valery has had an outstanding season for the Corsican side, and Hodgson spotted him during his time in charge at Internazionale.

Graham is poised to make three major foreign signings for Leeds. The Dutch striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink arrives today to complete a pounds 2m move from Boavista, days after his successful farewell appearance in the Portugese Cup final.

Norway's midfielder Alf Inge Haland will also join Leeds today, leaving the Yorkshire club to sort out a fee with Nottingham Forest. And his fellow Norwegian Tore Pedersen is expected to arrive after the weekend. The centre- back is poised for a pounds 1m move from the relegated German side St Pauli.