COME AND GET ME; MIDFIELDER ALMEIDA'S MESSAGE TO BLUES But Everton may struggle with asking price.

Byline: By IAN DOYLE

EVERTON'S hopes of signing Hugo Almeida were raised yesterday when the Werder Bremen striker revealed his "dream" to play in the Premier League.

But the Bundesliga side could scupper a prospective six-month loan move by demanding a prohibitive rental fee.

Almeida is one of several options Everton manager David Moyes is considering as he aims to bolster his strikeforce with Yakubu out for the season and Louis Saha and James Vaughan still on the sidelines.

Although the 24-year-old has admitted he is "open to offers", Bremen are reluctant to lose the Portugal international, who has appeared in the Champions League this season.

And with Everton working to tight financial constraints, any prospective deal may be jeopardised if the German outfit decide to slap a loan fee on the player.

However, encouragingly for Moyes, Almeida has revealed to having already sounded out compatriot Nuno Valente about life at Goodison.

"It would be a dream for me to play in England," said Almeida.

"But I have to remain calm while negotiations take place. "It is a possibility that pleases me.

"I am open to offers and am happy that Everton are interested in my services.

"I have spoken on the telephone with Nuno Valente to find out things about the club and the impression is very positive.

"Now I am in Bremen but if the offer from Everton materialises, I will have a final decision to make."

Bremen general manager Klaus Allofs yesterday moved to discourage any move for the player - who is also being tracked by Spanish duo Espanyol and Real Betis - and said: "There are no bids for Hugo and Hugo is part of our plans."

Meanwhile, Joleon Lescott insists Everton still have their sights on a top-four finish this season.

"We don't like to use the term 'big four'," said the centre-back. "All we want to do is get as high up the league as possible and if that means upsetting a supposed elite club, then all the better.

"It's tough to get up there, but it can be done. We did it a few years ago, so we have to keep doing our best."

Everton's FA Youth Cup fifth round clash with Norwich City will be played at Goodison on Wednesday, February 4 .

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Werder Bremen's Hugo Almeida