Everton are reportedly keen to tie young goalkeeper Joao Virginia down to a new contract at Goodison Park. The 19-year-old joined Everton’s academy last summer after spending time on the books of Benfica and Arsenal.
He made 12 appearances for their under-23 side last season and helped them to win the Premier League Cup, beating Newcastle 1-0 in the final. Everton and England number one Jordan Pickford doesn’t look likely to be giving up his spot any time soon, while Maarten Stekelenburg and Jonas Lossl provide some solid competition.
It’s understood that Everton want Virginia to experience senior football in 2019-20 and a loan move appears to be on the cards, however, they want to tie him down to a new contract first.
Championship outfit Reading have expressed an interest in taking Virginia but they will need to wait for contract negotiations to conclude before getting their man.
