Everton have signed a new partnership with their Chilean namesakes Everton de Vina del Mar.

The Latin influence at Goodison Park - helped by the summer transfers of James Rodriguez and Allan to join Colombia and Brazil compatriots Yerry Mina and Richarlison respectively - has helped propel the Toffees to the top of the Premier League.

They have built on that by signing a partnership with Chilean side Everton de Vina del Mar and its owners Grupo Pachuca, one of the leading football organisations in South and Central America with a stable of five other clubs based in Mexico and Argentina.

"Our international strategy is a core-pillar to our growth plans and this strategic partnership opens up Everton to the vast football community in one of the most football-passionate regions in the world - built on a long-standing and unique relationship with our Chilean Everton family," said chief executive Denise Barrett-Baxendale.

The partnership with Everton de Vina del Mar, formed in 1909 by Anglo-Chilean footballers and named after the English club, has established a formal relationship for player development and talent identification and will help develop international marketing and commercial opportunities across South America.