Everton have confirmed the signing of Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa for a transfer fee of around £9 million.
The midfielder is expected to strengthen the ranks of the Toffees as they look to improve on last season’s 15th-place finish.
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Everton have snapped up the highly-rated midfielder, who made 12 appearances for the club in the Premier League, while another deal is in the works that will see a player go the other way.
Lewis Dobbin, who made 12 Premier League appearances last season, is expected to move to Villa Park from Everton in a separate transfer.
“We are delighted to add Tim to our midfield options,” said Everton manager Sean Dyche.
“He’s a young player who is still learning and developing but clearly has many of the qualities we want in that area of the pitch.”
Iroegbunam wrote on social media: “After three incredible years at @avfcofficial it’s time to say goodbye.
“I owe so much to everyone at this club, from my Premier League debut to playing in Europe, it really has been incredible.”
“Everyone involved in this journey has been so good to me and I will never forget it. It was an honor to call myself a villain.”
“To my teammates, coaches and you fans. We will miss you all! All the best, Tim Iroegbunam.”
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The 20-year-old has signed a contract with the Toffees until the end of 2027, while the club are close to another transfer as Jack Harrison joins the club for another loan spell at Goodison Park.
Iroegbunam signed for Aston Villa in 2021, joining their U23 team at just 18 years old, and will be Everton’s first summer signing.
However, he struggled to get playing time under Unai Emery last season and made a few appearances, mainly as a substitute.
Overall, he started twice last season – in a 4-1 defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League and a 0-0 draw with Ajax in the Europa Conference League.
The young player made 15 appearances in all competitions and was mainly used in central midfield or defense.
He has already won titles with England and helped the English national team win the 2022 U19 European Championship, where the Young Lions defeated Israel 3-1 after extra time.
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