Everton boss Marco Silva remains hopeful of signing Andre Gomes on a permanent deal despite reports in Spain suggesting he has agreed terms with Sunday’s opponents Tottenham.
Gomes is in contention to face Spurs after completing a three-match ban but it could be his last Toffees appearance with the on-loan Barcelona midfielder reported to have agreed terms on a £26million move to the Champions League finalists.
“The only feedback I have had until now is from Andre, our relationship is really honest from the first day,” Silva said.
“He didn’t decide anything about his future and his agent too. This is what I can say to you.
“I’ve already told you about our talks not only with him but Zouma too. It is up to us to show that ambition with the clubs and the players.
“Him and Zouma, they were key players for us this season.”
A deal for Zouma could be complicated after Chelsea’s appeal against a transfer ban failed, however.
“Maybe it is not the best thing for us but now it is up to the clubs to speak to each other and deal with the situation and see what we can do,” he said.
Silva indicated this will be a key transfer window for Everton, saying the improvements they have made as a team this season were “clear” but there was now a need to reinforce in key areas.
“I think we’ve created a really good base,” Silva said. “It’s really important for us to keep the same level and after that to improve in the key positions.
“To keep that level is not easy, that is our first target, and after to go to the market and do the right things.”
“You can say they are living their dream but they are professional,” Silva said. “The Premier League is not done yet.
“They have one game more to play like us and even if they have enjoyed the last few days and possibly not been fully focused, after today they will be ready and they will be full of confidence.”
“He came out of the last game with that problem in his rib,” Silva said. “He made a big, big effort to play the last two games and he will be out of the next game, definitely.
“(Dominic) is injured at this moment, he will not play this match but he will be in good condition to play in June,” Silva said.
