Everton open talks to sign Portuguese midfielder

Everton have reportedly opened formal discussions with Barcelona over a permanent move for Andre Gomes.

The Portugal international spent the previous campaign on loan with the Toffees and he managed to make a good impression during his 29 appearances for the side.

As such, manager Marco Silva has already emphasised the need to acquire his services on a permanent basis and the club appear to be making progress towards the same.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Toffees have begun talks with the Blaugrana for Gomes and they seem to be leading the race, considering Tottenham Hotspur have backed off from making an approach.

Still, they won't get the midfielder on the cheap with the Spanish champions expected to demand around £25m for the services of the former Benfica graduate.

Gomes did not make an appearance for the Toffees last season until October due to a knee injury but he still formed a brilliant partnership with Idrissa Gueye in midfield and was pivotal to their strong end to the campaign.