LOAN BOYS ARE SILVA’S MAIN AIMS

MARCO SILVA says securing his loan stars Andre Gomes and Kurt Zouma on permanent deals for next season is his chief summer transfer priority.

Gomes looks certain to leave his parent club Barcelona at the end of the season, but even though Everton have given him a platform,

Spurs are interested – which looks a more likely destination.

Zouma (above) has also been a big success at Goodison, but Chelsea have been banned from making any signings this summer so could prevent him leaving.

As they prepare for a trip to Spurs that could prove the final Everton game for both players, Silva (below) said: “It will be really important to keep our best players in key positions.

“We have to first ensure we keep the level we are at, and then after that we strengthen in key positions.

“The board will do everything they can until the beginning of the next season.”

The fact that

Spurs are their lastday opposition is ironic for midfielder Gomes, after sources in Portugal suggested his advisors have agreed terms in principle with them.

But no fee has been agreed with Barca, and Everton value him so highly they are prepared to outbid their rivals.

And Silva doesn’t believe the players’ minds are made up.

“I have a relationship with both, it is really good and honest. I didn’t have one sign coming from them they don’t want to be here,’’ added the Blues boss.

“I am not saying they won’t change their mind, but let’s see what will be the decision, not just for them, but with their clubs.”

Richarlison will miss the visit to Spurs with a rib injury, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin will also be out after picking up a knock in training, while Seamus Coleman is also a doubt with a groin injury.