Everton inserted a clause in Joao Virginia's loan move to Reading that allows them to recall the goalkeeper in January.
The 20-year-old has made only three appearances for the Championship side since joining on a season-long deal in July.
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Virginia played in the opening two league games of the season but his only game-time since August has been in the Carabao Cup in late September.
On eight occasions this season, the Portuguese youngster has not made Reading's matchday squad after falling down the pecking order at the Madjeski Stadium.
Everton could recall Virginia in the January window after a clause was included in the loan deal but the ECHO understands the Blues can only trigger it in a defined period and would not have the entire month in which to act.
Virginia was one of the stand-out players for Everton last season as the under-23s won the Premier League 2 trophy and Premier League Cup.
The former Arsenal stopper was sent to Reading to work under Portuguese coach Jose Gomes but he was sacked in October and replaced by Mark Bowen.
