Everton revel in arrival of ‘one of our main targets’ for £35m

Matt Stead

Everton have confirmed the signing of Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi on a five-year contract.

Iwobi is the Toffees’ seventh summer arrival, joining for £35m after 15 years in north London.

The Nigerian admitted last month that he would consider leaving Arsenal if the planned arrival of Wilfried Zaha restricted his regular playing opportunities.

Despite the Crystal Palace winger remaining at Selhurst Park, Iwobi’s chances were potentially harmed by Nicolas Pepe joining.

Marco Silva capitalised to sign “one of our main targets” for a fee that could rise to £40m.

“Alex was one of our main targets for this window and I believe he is a fantastic signing for Everton,” he told the club’s official website.

“He is a direct and skilful winger and attacking midfielder who always works very hard for his team.

“He is still young but already with a lot of top-level experience – 100 Premier League matches, more in Europe and many international games.

“It was important for me to have one more quality option for our attacking positions to add to what we have with Richarlison, Bernard and Theo Walcott.

“Alex fits exactly the profile of player I want in my model. He is hungry to join Everton and take the next step in his career, to help us compete with the strongest teams in the league and reach his potential at our club.”