Everton are close to tying up a deal for Joao Moutinho and the player has told setanta.com he cannot wait to come to England.
Portugal international Moutinho has been a long-term target of David Moyes, who tried to sign the playmaker last summer.
Now the Everton boss has finally convinced the 22-year-old to come to Goodison Park, with only the transfer fee standing in the way of the deal.
Moutinho’s release clause is €20 million, although financially hard-up Sporting would settle for €14-15 million for a player who has had multiple fall-outs with coach Paulo Bento.
The player himself admits he is waiting for the clubs to reach an agreement – despite plenty of attention from other pursuers, but he is clear in his delight at the prospect of moving to England.
"I am able to play in a foreign league and The Premier League is the best thing that could come,” he told setanta.com.
“I know several clubs are interested, but the coach of Everton wanted me last year."