Everton starlet Joao Virginia wanted by host of top-division European sides
Everton starlet Joao Virginia is wanted by a host of top-division European sides, according to a report from O Jogo.
They claim that approaches have been made for the 21-year-old goalkeeper from both Championship teams and many top-division European clubs.
The Toffees have decided to send the Portuguese Under-21 international on loan, and the Liverpool Echo reported that teams from abroad were interested. However, this report has revealed the calibre of clubs that are keen.
The right decision.
So, now it appears as if Virginia has a choice between moving to the Championship to continue adapting to the English game or moving to a better league somewhere in Europe.
Either move has positives and negatives attached, but either one should help his development as a player.
The Toffees signed Virginia in 2018 and he has made three first-team appearances; however, after the arrival of Asmir Begovic as the backup goalkeeper, it appeared unlikely that Virginia would get many first-team chances this season.
Therefore, a loan move is probably the best thing for his personal development and for the club, who get to see how he deals with a different league.
The 21-year-old has been praised in the past for his “fantastic” saves by Tottenham Hotspur Under-23s coach Wayne Burnett, and he could have a bright future with the Toffees; he just needs some time out on loan first [Tottenham’s website].
In other Everton news, one pundit issues his prediction on Rafael Benitez and the Toffees.
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