Rumours of English trip results in Pereira being backed for Everton

There has been more change at the head of the betting to be the next Everton manager than at a typical Arturo Brachetti show, but Vitor Pereira has been a regular feature towards the top of the market and it may be significant that he has now emerged as the favourite to replace David Moyes for the first time.

Pereira is now the shortest price he has been to be named as the next Everton boss at 3/1 and this could predominantly be a result of speculation from the Portuguese press that he has flown to London to discuss terms with a “top half” Premier League club.

The credentials of the Porto manager cannot be overlooked as he has won the Portuguese title in each of his two years since replacing Andre Villas-Boas, losing only one league game in this time.

Meanwhile, Porto have only conceded 33 goals in these 60 league outings and Pereira’s main attribute appears to be his tactical astuteness.

This will be of value to Everton as they are unable to compete financially with their leading rivals for a top-four Premier League spot, putting an added premium on bringing youngsters through and out-foxing opponents tactically.

He also ticks the boxes for Everton in a few other areas, most notably in that his contract is currently up at Porto so he can be brought in without the need to pay compensation.

Furthermore, at Porto, Pereira has not really been able to stamp his authority in the transfer market due to only having limited control over the signing of future players and the opportunity to shape the squad in a way he sees fit will be a big positive to taking over at Everton.

There is the belief that he has now been offered a new contract at Porto, but his underachievement in Europe has not gained him the full recognition of supporters, while the directors may not be able to meet his personal demands.

It would be a step into the unknown for Everton to appoint a foreign manager, but the impact of Jose Mourinho and Villas-Boas should aid his chances, even if Pereira is not naturally as charismatic or outspoken as this pair.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publication