Valencia midfielder Ever Banega has revealed he turned down a season-long loan move with Everton as he feels he still has plenty to learn in Spain.

Toffees boss David Moyes had sounded out the talented 21-year-old about a temporary loan switch to Goodison Park, and even went as far as getting a work permit approved for him after Los Che accepted their offer.

Banega spent last season on loan at Atletico Madrid after enduring a frustrating first six months at the Mestalla following his €18million (£15m) move from Boca Juniors in January 2008.

But having opted to reject Everton's overtures the Argentine playmaker returned to Unai Emery's side with a man of the match performance in Valencia's 2-0 win over Sevilla at the weekend.

"I feel that I am more mature now and that I still have many things to learn and show in Spain, that's why I decided not be transferred to the English league," said Banega.

"It was me who didn't want to leave, I wanted to continue because I think in having a place in the team and I want to continue in that way."

Everton fans will not be too disheartened with the club's failure to land Banega having seen the likes of Johnny Heitinga, Sylvain Distin, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Jo all arrive this summer for over £20million.