Phil Jagielka of Everton is challenges by Cameron Jerome of Birmingham during the Barclays Premier League match(Getty Images) 800

Manchester United and Arsenal will compete to signEverton centre-back Phil Jagielka in the summer.

Gunner boss Arsene Wenger believes that the 28 -year-old would do well in a central defense partnership with Thomas Vermaelen and provide some experience for the young team.

Sir Alex Ferguson is also interested in acquiring the former England international, who can also play full-back and midfield, to boost United’s strength for next season.

Jagielka missed much of the season after suffering a severe knee injury last April and despite returning to the Toffees late in the season the defender could not find his way into Fabio Capello’s provisional England squad.

United and Arsenal could start the bidding for Jagielka at £15million but Everton manager David Moyes will not let the defender go easily.