Everton move for Fernandes

Everton have made a formal offer for Benfica's Manuel Fernandes, according to the 21-year-old midfielder's cub.

Benfica own only 50% of the Portuguese international, while Everton would want to buy the player outright to avoid third-party ownership complications.

Benfica said in a statement: "We have received an offer from Everton to acquire 50% of Fernandes' rights. We are analysing Everton's offer."

However, Everton are thought to be �4m short of Benfica's �12m valuation.

Fernandes spent the second part of last season on loan at Goodison Park and did enough for manager David Moyes to want to agree a permanent deal for him.

But Everton will be wary that Fernandes is part-owned by a third party, the Global Sports Agency.

Under Premier league rules, England's top clubs are not allowed to field a player owned by a third party who would have the "ability materially to influence its policies or the performance of its teams".

Benfica have named Fernandes in their squad for Tuesday's Champions League qualifying match against FC Copenhagen but he did not join the rest of the team on Monday.

If he does play, Fernandes would not be eligible to play for Everton in this season's Uefa Cup - and that could scupper a deal.

Source: BBC Sport