Andre Gomes has dismissed West Ham's interest and insisted his heart was always set on a move to Everton.
The Blues star, who recently sealed a permanent £22million deal after impressing on loan last season, spoke openly about his transfer in a press conference today.
There was believed to be interest in Gomes from West Ham, Spurs and other sides around Europe at various points over the summer.
But the new Toffees recruit was very clear that Goodison Park was his first and only choice.
When asked about West Ham and other links, Gomes said: "I wasn't wondering about the situation. I didn't know the offers around me.
"I just talked with my brother, my best friend, my agent. I told him I preferred to stay here. Everton was the first option."
Asked why it appeared to take a while to for his Blues switch to be confirmed, Gomes explained the process of the talks and how smoothly it went.
He said: "We finished in May. A week later we started conversations.
"I think it was great because it could be longer with some problems but it wasn't the case. I think it was good for everybody."
And he paid a glowing tribute to the fans for their support and the club for giving him a "new start".
The Portugal international said: "It was an easy decision because the fans were with me. I have to thank them. Marco [Silva] and Marcel [Brands] gave me confidence.
"I'm really appreciative of what the fans have done for me. Since the first game they were with me.
"They helped me a lot. It's an honour to be here with them.
"The opportunity at Everton was a new start. People gave me all the confidence."
