Marco Silva says the fact Richarlison is close to signing a new deal with Everton reflects the Brazilian’s “happiness” at the Club.

Director of Football Marcel Brands revealed on Friday an extended contract had been agreed with the 22-year-old.

Richarlison joined Everton in summer 2018, reuniting with manager Silva, who brought the explosive forward to the Premier League when in charge at Watford.

He has since scored 19 goals for the Blues and won the Club’s Young Player of the Year award for 2018/19.

Richarlison has also become a full Brazil international during his time on Merseyside and helped his country to a home Copa America triumph earlier this year, scoring in the five-time world champions’ final victory over Peru.

Asked what Richarlison’s decision to commit his future to the Club said about the attacker’s mindset, Silva replied: “It shows his happiness [at Everton].

“It [agreeing a new contract for Richarlison] was key for me. It was something we have been working on for some weeks.

“From the conversations I have had with Richarlison, I was clear how he is an important player for us.

“Our Board said the same thing to him.

“We are doing this because we believe he can keep improving as a player and he can keep helping our team to win matches.”