Everton transfer news: Deal finally confirmed for long-term target

Everton have beaten the transfer deadline to re-sign winger Aaron Lennon from Tottenham on a three-year deal for a fee believed to be in the region of £4.5m.

Lennon made 14 appearances for Everton, scoring two goals, in a successful loan spell during the second half of last season.

His presence undoubtedly helped to revive Everton's flagging fortunes last spring, helping to provide the surge in form they needed to pull away from the bottom of the table.

Tottenham were happy to allow Lennon to leave this summer but their initial asking price of £9m, later reduced to £6m, saw Everton cool their interest.

However, with the clock ticking towards the deadline Everton revived the deal and agreed a fee in the region of £4.5m for the former Leeds winger, who was in the final year of his contract at White Hart Lane.

Lennon's arrival, mainly because it was expected, is not one to over-excite the fans and he isn't the number 10 we were all hoping for.

But he does boost our forward options, offering pace and creativity, making him a solid if unspectacular addition to the squad.

Speaking of the deal, Roberto Martinez said:

"We are delighted to welcome Aaron back to Everton. We know we are getting a player our fans know inside out. He had a major role in the second half of our season and we're looking forward to Aaron kicking on and continuing to enjoy his football, as well as being the productive player we know he can be.

"He is well-respected in the dressing room, his experience in the Premier League is immense and he will immediately add to our squad and to the ambition we have as a club."