Sporting Lisbon are leading the race to sign Everton goalkeeper Joao Virginia on loan.
The 21-year-old has been made available on a season-long deal by the Blues this summer.
And Virginia, who was again absent from Everton's matchday set-up at Goodison on Saturday, is being targeted by Portuguese giants Sporting.
Virginia came through the ranks at Sporting's city rivals Benfica but looks to be edging closer to a move to Jose Alvalade Stadium.
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In May, Sporting won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002.
Virginia made his first-team breakthrough at Everton last season, replacing the injured Jordan Pickford against Burnley and then deputising for him in the FA Cup tie with Manchester City.
But with the addition of Asmir Begovic, and with youngster Harry Tyrer able to provide further cover, Everton are ready to let Virginia leave on loan.
