Sporting Lisbon president Soares Franco has declared that the proposed transfer of Portuguese International Joao Moutinho to Premier League side Everton is now closed.

Everton boss David Moyes has made Sporting captain Moutinho his number one transfer target. With an improved offer thought to be imminent after the sale of Andy Johnson to Fulham.

However, Franco insists that Moutinho will not be moving to Goodison Park, despite Moutinho being open to a move from the Estadio Jose Alvade.

“I’ve been amazed to see that the newspapers know more than me about contacts that I have not made, both with agents and with the club that wants to buy Moutinho,” Franco said.

“The Joao Moutinho situation is a purely internal dossier and is now closed.”

Franco went on to defend his captain, who was given a cold reception by some fans in the recent friendly against PSV Eindhoven.

“Each Sporting member has the right to judge the attitude and declarations of Moutinho how they like,” he added.

“One thing I can guarantee: the footballer was brought through the ranks at Sporting and has all the affection of the board.

“We love him and want him to stay at Alvalade. Will he keep the captain’s armband? You already know the answer.”

21-year-old Moutinho has also been linked with a move to Arsenal, with Arsene Wenger still to sign the one quality midfielder he believes he needs at the Emirates Stadium.