Everton are poised to sign Donny van de Beek on loan from Manchester United, and make him the first signing of the Frank Lampard era, after the Dutch midfielder decided he prefers a move to Goodison Park rather than to Crystal Palace.
Everton are ready to pay Van de Beek’s full salary until the end of the season after he was identified by Lampard – who is expected to be confirmed as the club’s manager on Sunday – as a priority target. Crystal Palace offered to pay 85% of the player’s salary.
The Netherlands international, who has had limited game time at United under both Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Ralf Rangnick, was also wanted by Patrick Vieira at Palace, who began their pursuit some days earlier. Van de Beek appeared ready to switch to Selhurst Park but has ultimately decided he wants to play on Merseyside following Everton’s intervention.
There is no buy option included in the deal, with Van de Beek’s agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, in London to finalise the contract.
A new midfielder is vital for Everton before Monday night’s transfer deadline with Abdoulaye Doucouré, Tom Davies and Fabian Delph all sidelined until March with injury.
Phil Jones could also leave United on loan for Bordeaux after the clubs held productive talks over a loan.
