Sporting CP coach Ruben Amorim is eager to hang onto Everton goalkeeper Joao Virginia.

The Portuguese shot-stopper has spent the current campaign with Sporting, making eight appearances in all competitions.

O Jogo says a permanent deal has been considered but the club are not willing to pay the £5million asking price that is understood to have been set.

Discussing Sporting's stance on Virginia, Amorim said: "We are going to try a new loan for João, we are very happy.

"He played more at Sporting than the time he spent at Everton. He will be a Sporting starting goalkeeper."