Manuel Fernandes has admitted that he has been surprised by the speed of his transfer from Benfica to Valencia as he was on the verge of a move to Everton.

The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder agreed to move to the Mestalla, rather than to Goodison Park, after a brief chat with compatriot Miguel.

After spending the second half of last season on loan at Everton, the Premier League side expected him to join permanently only to see Valencia succeed with a last minute £12million bid.

"What happened with Everton are things that I know nothing about and what is most important now is that I am here," Fernandes said.

"I did not expect everything to happen to me so quickly, but I am very excited to be here.

"I talked to Miguel and know that I am joining a good club and a place where I can grow."