Everton have completed the signing of Tom Cleverley on a free transfer, following the completion of his contract at Manchester United.
The 25-year-old spent the last season on loan at Aston Villa, and had confirmed he felt his future was away from Old Trafford. The midfielder has been branded a ‘flop’ by supporters, and has lacked the quality to solve Manchester United’s midfield difficulties for many years.
After reaching the FA Cup final with Tim Sherwood’s side, Cleverley was tipped to head to Villa Park on a permanent deal – being told he would not be offered a new deal when his contract expired at the end of the season. However, Roberto Martinez was quick to make a move for the Englishman, and a deal has been completed for the former Bradford City youngster.
Cleverley progressed through the ranks at the Theatre of Dreams, and faced a number of loan spells in order to gain experience and break into the first-team as a regular. With temporary moves to Leicester City, Watford, Wigan Athletic and most recently Aston Villa, he managed 55 league appearances for the Red Devils across a six year spell. Netting three times, Cleverley has also earned 13 international appearances, while England manager Roy Hodgson recently confirmed the central midfielder was in contention for selection once again after his performances at Villa Park.
Martinez has signed Cleverley at Goodison Park after enjoying his time working with him at Wigan Athletic, and is hoping to recreate his form having lifted the Premier League title and two Community Sheilds in his time with the Manchester giants.
Tom Cleverley has put pen-to-paper on a five-year deal with Everton, and will officially join on July 1 once his current deal with Manchester United expires.
