:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27822929/gyi0063151215.0.jpg)
It has taken 18 months, but the oft rumored departure of John Heitinga has finally been completed. The Dutch international has moved to Fulham on a free transfer in search of more playing time.
Though his contract still had 6 months left on it, Everton was willing to let the defender go in search of regular first-team football ahead of the World Cup in Brazil this summer. Though fans will be disappointed in not getting a fee for him, Heitinga was on massive wages and his departure frees up money for some new contracts for a few current stars.
In four and a half seasons at the club Heitinga appeared in 115 matches and had several fantastic seasons for the Toffees. He was one of the clubs best players during 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons. His decline came in 2012 after he was the odd man out with Sylvian Distin and Phil Jagielka. Though he made 26 appearances almost none of them were pretty.
This move also appears to indicate the end of Everton's business in the transfer window. There is always hope of some more moves, but based on comments from Roberto Martinez, it seems unlikely.
