Everton have completed the signing of midfielder, Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa for a £9million transfer fee.
Iroegbunam initially was part of West Bromwich Albion’s youth academy until he made the switch to West Midlands rival, Villa in July 2021, and made his senior debut for the Villains almost seven months later as a substitute in a 2-0 away victory at Brighton.
The now 20 year-old went on to make two further appearances in the 2021-22 season then just one appearance in the following season, which saw him spend much of that campaign on loan at QPR where he scored twice in 32 appearances.
Last season saw Iroegbunam make 15 appearances for Villa – including five appearances in Villa’s run to Europa Conference League semi-finals, although he made just two starts as Unai Emery Villains finished fourth in the Premier League.
Villa have since decided to greenlight his move after accepting a £9m bid from Everton, with Lewis Dobbin joining Emery’s Villains in part-exchange after managing one goal in 20 senior appearances for the Toffees either side of a loan stint at Derby in 22-23 season.
Speaking to evertontv. following his move, Iroegbunam was happy to make the switch ahead of the Toffees’ final season at Goodison Park, before they move to Bramley-Moore Dock next summer.
“I’m very pleased. Everton is an amazing club, a big club and I’m just really happy to join and I can’t wait to get started.
“It was a move that I didn’t want to pass by. I wanted to take the opportunity.
“When I spoke to Kevin [Thelwell], he told me more about the Club – its history, the future and where they see me playing. It made me feel very excited because there are big things coming, especially with the new stadium.”
Iroegbunam also vowed to try and earn the supporters’ respect as the club looks to avoid another relegation fight.
“When I’ve been to Goodison as an opposition player, I’ve seen how the Everton fans are. You can tell straight away what the atmosphere is like – they are always backing the team. I’m going to work hard for them.
“I just can’t wait to get started. I’m going to give everything and I can’t wait to show what I can bring to this club.”
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