Everton misfit Sandro Ramirez keen to return to Spain amid Valencia interest

Everton forward Sandro Ramirez could be set for a return to Spain in the January transfer window amid interest from high-flying Valencia, who are looking for an alternative to the impressive Simone Zaza as they attempt to sustain their title push.

Sandro has not exactly hit the ground since joining the Merseysiders from La Liga outfit Malaga for £5.2m (€6m) in the summer transfer window. Much was expected of the former Barcelona star, who scored 14 league goals for Malaga last season, but he has barely featured under interim boss David Unsworth, struggling to be named in some match-day squads under the caretaker manager and previous boss Ronald Koeman.

The 22-year-old did manage to score his first goal for Everton in the 5-1 mauling by Atalanta last week, but his recent plight at Goodison Park has led him to long for a return to Spain, according to Plaza Deportiva. His wish to go back to his homeland may be granted by Valencia, who only have Zaza and the rejuvenated Rodrigo as their centre-forward options at present.

Marcelino's men are hoping to strike a loan move with Everton for Sandro with a view to a permanent deal in the summer, and a temporary switch for the Spaniard would seemingly benefit all parties.

Valencia would receive a much-needed striking option that has proven to be effective in La Liga, Everton could recoup their outlay from the summer or perhaps have a refreshed Sandro ahead of next season, while the player himself would be handed a fresh chance to prove himself worthy of a place in Spain's squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Sandro has made just five starts for all competitions for Everton so far this season and has not begun a game in the Premier League since September, but Valencia are actually encouraged by his lack of minutes as they think it will prove to be a beneficial factor for them when they come to negotiate a move.

It remains to be seen what new Everton manager Sam Allardyce does with Sandro, but according to an excerpt from Marca Valencia president Anil Murthy has travelled to England to meet the club's owner Peter Lim and accelerate a deal for the forward.

Sandro was an unused substitute on Wednesday (29 November) as Everton romped to victory over West Ham United, and he will likely take his place on the bench for the visit of Huddersfield Town on Saturday [2 December].