Everton surely have green light for Richard Rios transfer as Benfica open door to exit

Everton could now have the go-ahead for Richard Rios' signature.

The Blues are reportedly on the lookout for another new midfielder, after seeing Idrissa Gueye walk away earlier this summer.

They have also received a £15million bid for Tim Iroegbunam from Hull City, which only increases their need for another body in the engine room.

They have already added Hayden Hackney, but there is a feeling that if the ex-Aston Villa man also departs, the Toffees will need one more.

Rios has been on their radar for a significant period, and they may now have the green-light to add him to their squad.

Benfica's stance on an exit has emerged, and it may leave the door open for the Blues and other interested parties.

Why is door open to Everton signing Richard Rios?

Rios started his career at Flamengo in Brazil, also playing for Guarani and Palmeiras in that country.

The Athletic claimed in July that the Hill Dickinson Stadium side have followed him since his time in the South American nation before he joined the Estadio da Luz outfit.

They named him as a contender for a Gueye replacement, and it appears that is now a possibility.

Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra reported on Thursday that the Portuguese club are open to an exit, if the price is right.

He stated that there are several teams chasing the World Cup star and his future is mostly likely to be decided in the coming days, which hands the green-light to the L3 outfit.

Would Rios fit in the Premier League with Everton?

Rios played 27 times in Liga Portugal last season, with five goals and four assists.

He managed 2.37 shots, 0.87 chances created and had 2.13 touches in the opposition box on a per 90 minute basis, per Fotmob data.

The 37-cap international averaged 2.01 tackles, 4.23 recoveries and 1.03 clearances per game, as he showed his defensive prowess.

In terms of duels, he won 54.6 per cent on the ground and 50.7 per cent in the air.

Those numbers suggest that he would a quality addition for Moyes' side, if they could get it done ahead of rivals for his services.

Given Sierra's update, it seems like they will have to act fast if he is a genuine target.