Everton hopeful of permanent Andre Gomes move

Marco Silva has confirmed that he wants to sign Andre Gomes on a permanent deal this summer – but admits the midfielder’s future is out of his hands.

Gomes was outstanding yet again during Everton’s against West Ham on Saturday, further evidence that he is back to his best after a slight dip in performance levels over the winter.

It was reported in the Guardian last week that the Toffees would look to pursue a permanent deal for 25-year-old at the end of the season.

There is no clause in his loan contract to make the move permanent, so Barcelona will likely look to at least recoup the £29million they paid Valencia for Gomes three years ago.

Speaking to reporters after Saturday’s win at West Ham United and reported by the Echo, Silva confirmed his desire to keep his compatriot beyond the end of this season.

“It is a very, very good opportunity for us.

“Let’s see what the position is of his own club, we know our position and we know Andre’s position also, so let’s see what we can do.

“Let’s see if we can have Andre permanently in our club.”

Silva concedes, however, that the intricacies of any deal are out of his hands and he can only indicate to the board what would like the club to do in the transfer market.

It is up to Marcel Brands, Farhad Moshiri and Bill Kenwright to ensure it is the right deal financially and they are likely to drive a hard bargain after the excesses of recent years.

“It [signing Gomes permanently] is really important but let’s see what we can do. All of us inside the club are really happy with him, all of the fans enjoy seeing him play football, Andre is enjoying what he is doing at our club.

“Let’s see what we can do. You know my opinion, he is really important for us but, in the end, it will be business and, as you know, it is not my job.”