Vitória emerged as a target for Everton earlier this week.
Benfica rejected Everton’s offer of €6 million (£5.3 million) for manager Rui Vitória, O Jogo reports on page 6 of its printed edition on Wednesday.
Vitória is one of several Portuguese coaches linked with the vacant Everton manager’s job, along with Marco Silva, Paulo Fonseca, Andre Villas Boas and Nuno Espirito Santo.
The Mirror reported on Monday that Everton were considering making a move after being offered the Benfica boss’ services – and according to O Jogo, the Toffees did indeed act upon their interest.
However, it is claimed their approach was blocked by Benfica president Luís Filipe Vieira, who insisted on Vitória’s €15 million (£13.3 million) release clause being met.
Everton are widely expected to appoint Sam Allardyce instead as Ronald Koeman’s successor, more than a month since the Dutchman’s sacking and two weeks after the former England manager claimed to have called off negotiations.
The Toffees will drop into the Premier League’s bottom three if they are beaten at home by West Ham United on Wednesday.
Is Allardyce Everton’s best bet?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
