Everton have been encouraged in their pursuit of Malaga striker Sandro Ramirez.

Sky Sports says Everton are now leading the race to sign Ramirez, who apparently has a release clause of around £5m in his Malaga contract.

Atletico Madrid is said to have been his most likely destination before they failed to overturn a FIFA-imposed transfer ban which prevents them from signing players until January.

When quizzed over their interest by AS, Sandro said: "It's true that I have a low clause, but right now I am still a Malaga player and I want to focus on the national team.

"I am in no rush to sign for a big club... I try to avoid all they're saying about me."