Everton's director of football Kevin Thelwell has heralded Amadou Onana as "one of the most-after young midfielders in Europe" as he welcomed the 20-year-old to Merseyside.
Onana's arrival was confirmed on Tuesday afternoon as the Blues signed off on a deal with French side Lille worth in excess of £30m. The move followed the Belgium international's appearance in the stands at Goodison Park on Saturday, when he posed for pictures with supporters during the game with Chelsea.
He is the fifth signing of the summer for Everton, following James Tarkowski, Ruben Vinagre, Dwight McNeil and Conor Coady.
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Everton swooped for Onana last week as West Ham United were in negotiations for the starlet. While the deal was confirmed on Monday it was no secret he was poised to join the Blues.
Speaking of his new midfielder's qualities over the weekend, manager Frank Lampard said: “He has, for me, everything in terms of physicality, quality on the ball, energy and defensive mindset — an all-rounder for us. He has a big future and will have a big impact on the club.”
That potential was re-affirmed by Thelwell. He said: “We are delighted to complete the signing of Amadou and for him to commit his long-term future to Everton. He is one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe for a reason and has many attributes to benefit our squad. We are confident he can be a popular player with Evertonians for many years to come."
Lampard said: “Amadou is a player we were really keen to bring to Everton. He has many great qualities to help strengthen our midfield and, at just 20-years-old, has massive potential to get even better."
On the talks that brought him to the Blues, Lampard added: "I spoke to him about why Everton was the right club for him and we’re all looking forward to him showing what he can bring to the team.”
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