Target confirms Toffees move hopes

Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Moutinho says that he would like to leave the Portuguese side after hearing of Everton's interest.

The Toffees have been linked with a swoop for the 21-year-old starlet during the close-season, but appeared put off by the £18million price tag placed on his head by Sporting officials. However Moutinho has paved the way for a move to Goodison Park after claiming he would like to link up with David Moyes' side.

He said: "I said I want to leave. There is talk that... Sporting rejected [a bid from Everton]. Now, I would hope that Sporting and Everton have reached agreement."

It is thought that Everton would use the money brought in from the sale of striker Andrew Johnson to fund a deal for Moutinho. The England international is certain to leave the Toffees this summer after being left out of their friendly games this week and the club's tour to the United States.

Fulham, Wigan and West Ham have all been linked with a swoop for the former Crystal Palace frontman.