Everton complete Tom Cleverley signing

Everton have completed the signing of Tom Cleverley on a free transfer, with the midfielder agreeing a five-year contract to begin on July 1.

The midfielder completed a medical on Friday afternoon with the Blues having beaten off interest from Aston Villa, the club where he spent last season on loan, to secure the 25-year-old out-of-contract Manchester United man.

Manager Roberto Martinez is a long-term admirer of the midfielder after previously working with him when in charge of Wigan Athletic, a spell which saw Cleverley excel under the Spaniard.

Speaking after the deal was announced, the boss was clearly delighted to have completed his first transfer of the summer.

"We are extremely delighted to be welcoming Tom to Everton and I can think of many reasons as to why our fans will enjoy Tom representing our football club," he said.

"At the age of 25 and a player who is representing his country, Tom has experienced winning trophies and having big roles in demanding teams. Having worked with him previously, I know the type of character he is and I know that, with the Everton fans' support, we will get a very special footballer joining our already exciting team."

The news has been met with generally positive response from Evertonians, with many suggesting the player's Premier League experience, and the fact his best years are ahead of him, could make the move a shrewd one from the club.