Everton have signed French midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin for a fee of £20m rising to £24m, the club have announced.
? | @schneiderlinmo4 has signed a deal to the end of June 2021 for an initial £20m fee rising to £24m https://t.co/gOVl7BG5Va #WelcomeMorgan pic.twitter.com/DgucuIH93S
— Everton (@Everton) January 12, 2017
Ronald Koeman and Steve Walsh identified the former Manchester United midfielder as an ideal fit in their high pressing midfield, with the player working under Koeman in Schneiderlin’s final season at the club.
With Idrissa Gueye jetting off to the African Cup of Nations, Gareth Barry showing his age of late and an injury to James McCarthy the club made Morgan’s signing a priority and were able to complete a deal after reportedly haggling for a better deal.
The breakthrough in talks came on Tuesday evening, with the Telegraph breaking the news before all news organisations across the country supported claims, leading to a celebration from Everton fans who see the club sign only their third player worth £16m or more.
Koeman and Evertonians alike will hope that the Frenchman can hit the ground running and possibly make the squad for the Manchester City game this weekend.
The Toffees will likely move onto other targets after completing the move, with Memphis Depay looking the next likely target while central defender Kostas Manolas and midfielder Franck Kessie have also been liked with the club.
