Everton are considering the possibility of recalling Joao Virginia from his unsuccessful loan spell at Reading when the option becomes available in January.

Virginia has made just three appearances since making the switch to the Madejski Stadium over the summer, and the fact he has been regularly missing out on the match-day squad means he could be set for an early return to Merseyside.

Everton boss Marco Silva and Director of Football Marcel Brands have held talks to discuss whether they should recall Virginia, given that he has now featured just once for the Royals since being dropped from the league side in August.

However, the Liverpool Echo have reported that Everton only have a limited window where they are able to recall Virginia in January, so they will need to reach a decision sooner rather than later.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Everton's Under-23 boss David Unsworth confirmed that talks had been held at the club over Virginia's potential recall after a disappointing start to his loan stint in Berkshire.

"Marcel and I and Marco have spoken," he said.

"He's having a tough time at the moment and we have discussed it. I'm not really sure the final decision on what is going to happen but all I know is that he's an absolute top, top young goalkeeper.

"He's had a bad loan, it happens. Look what happened to Beni [Baningime] last year. We all know Beni's qualities. It can happen. I'm sure he will be a better person for it when he comes back, whenever he comes back."

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The Verdict

It definitely comes as no surprise that Everton are considering recalling Virginia given his lack of game time for Reading this term, as he would probably be better off at his parent club rather than with the Royals.

Virginia is held in high regard at Everton so he is clearly a bright goalkeeping prospect, but his loan stint at Reading has simply not gone well and a recall may be the best move for all concerned.

Rafael has firmly established as Reading's first-choice goalkeeper following his summer arrival, which means it also seems unlikely Virginia's situation will change anytime soon.