Cleverley becomes Everton’s first summer signing

Tom Cleverley has dealt a blow to Tim Sherwood’s rebuilding plans at Aston Villa by agreeing to join Everton on a free transfer. It is understood the 25 year old midfielder has agreed a five year contract with the Merseyside club. The Basingstoke born player spent last season on loan at Aston Villa. Cleverley played in last week’s FA Cup Final defeat to Arsenal at Wembley.

Cleverley’s Manchester United contract expires this month. Despite talking to Villa over a permanent deal, it appears he is likely to return to the North-West to wear the blue of the Toffees. The Everton manager, Roberto Martínez, has pursued Cleverley since last summer, when United refused to sanction his season-long loan to Goodison. The pair worked together at Wigan Athletic in the 2010-11 season when Cleverley scored four goals in 25 appearances while on loan.

Cleverley, who has won 13 England caps has now had a medical at Everton’s Finch Farm training ground on Friday. He will be in preparation for becoming Everton’s first signing of the summer.