Amadou Onana has spoken of is delight at joining one of the biggest clubs in England after his transfer to Everton was confirmed on Wednesday.
The midfielder has signed a five-year contract at Goodison Park, making the move to Merseyside from Lille for what has officially described as an undisclosed fee. It's believed, however, the deal between the two clubs could rise to in excess of £30m in the future in certain add-ons are met.
The 20-year-old was at his new home stadium for the first time on Saturday to take in the Blues playing against Chelsea, taking numerous pictures with supporters while he was there. And now, he's described exactly why he chose to make the move to Everton this summer after interest from a host of other sides.
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Onana told evertontv: "It feels great to join Everton. I know it’s a big, big club, one of the biggest in England. It’s something I want to be part of for many years.
"Everyone here showed they really wanted me and they have a plan for me, so I really appreciated the talks I had with the manager and Director of Football [Kevin Thelwell]. They told me how they wanted me to play and I enjoyed it.
"They both have a lot of ambition and that’s the type of guy I am so it matches.
"The manager was one of the big reasons. He played at the highest level, won many things and was a midfielder, too. It means a lot to have interest from him and I think he can teach me many things.
"The Everton fans are amazing. I saw their support last season and it’s also one of the reasons why I chose Everton. I am looking forward to meeting them at Goodison and, just hearing about the atmosphere, I get goosebumps.
"Blue is my favourite colour, too! I am going to give everything for the club and our supporters."
Onana will wear the No.8 shirt at Everton next season, taking over the number from Fabian Delph after the midfielder left the club upon the expiry of his contract in the summer. And the new signing has explained why he picked that number, and hinted towards his versatility in the midfield areas.
"I think I can play every position in centre midfield, whether that’s as a holding midfielder or a box-to-box as a number eight. That said, wherever the manager needs me, I will play there," added Onana.
"I chose the number eight shirt because I am a big fan of Kobe Bryant. His work ethic and the way he was inspired me so I’m happy to have that number at Everton.
"I’m just excited to be on the pitch and show what I can do and help the team as much as I can."
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