Moyes to smash Everton transfer record for Portugal star Moutinho

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Everton are ready to smash their transfer record to capture young Portugal midfielder Joao Moutinho from Sporting Lisbon. A deal is close to agreement that will eventually cost a total of £18million — significantly higher than the £11.25m paid to Middlesbrough for Nigeria striker Yakubu last year.

Everton boss David Moyes has had a long-standing interest in Moutinho, 21, and paid special attention to him during the European Championship but was given little chance of meeting the asking price.

Toffee target: Joao Moutinho in training for Portugal with Ronaldo

At various times Manchester United, Arsenal and Barcelona have headed the list of clubs attracted by Moutinho.

New Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari emerged as the favourite to sign a player he introduced to the international stage as Portugal coach, but made it clear he would not be bidding after signing Deco.

Now, following weeks of negotiations, Everton, who have yet to make a signing during this transfer window, believe they will soon have their man by making an initial downpayment followed by a series of further instalments over several years.