Everton boss David Moyes has revealed that Town manager Joe Royle has been in contact with him regarding the availability of keeper Paul Gerrard. Recently the Blues' boss ruled out a move for the former loanee but today appeared to suggest that signing Gerrard was more likely.

Royle has admitted that a keeper is his priority over the summer even before he gave Andy Marshall a free transfer, and David Moyes says that Gerrard has very much been in the Town boss's thoughts: "Joe has noted an interest in Paul Gerrard."

The 30-year-old worked under Royle and Willie Donachie at Everton and prior to that at Oldham. In November last year they brought him to Portman Road for a loan spell which was curtailed after a month by a knee injury.

The Heywood-born keeper is currently third choice at Goodison behind former Blue Richard Wright and Steve Simonsen. He is understood to want to leave Everton to play first team football but has a year left on a substantial contract.

There is no way he would be able to switch to Portman Road unless he is willing to accept a much reduced wage while Everton may well be happy to see him leave on a free.

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