Everton have completed a £9 million deal with Aston Villa’s English-born Nigerian midfielder, Tim Iroegbunam.
The promising 20-year-old midfielder, who has been seeking a new opportunity to showcase his talents consistently, has officially signed with Everton FC.
After struggling to secure regular playing time with Aston Villa last season, he is eager for a fresh start at Goodison Park.
The Nigeria descent found it difficult to secure consistent playing time under Unai Emery last season, only managing a few appearances as a substitute.
Overall, he started in just two games – a 4-1 loss to Manchester City in the Premier League and a 0-0 draw against Ajax in the Europa Conference League.
The deal, reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, has been finalized and sees the 20-year-old midfielder make the switch to Everton on a three-year deal.
Premier League also confirmed the transfer on their official X, previously Twitter.
Iroegbunam had a successful loan spell at QPR last season, where he made 32 appearances and scored twice.
With two goals in seven games for England’s U20 side, he is considered a highly-rated youngster who will provide added depth to Everton’s midfield options under manager Sean Dyche.
The move does not include Everton forward Lewis Dobbin heading in the opposite direction, although Dobbin is said to be in advanced talks to join Aston Villa in a separate transfer.
Iroegbunam is set to undergo medical checks in the coming days as he prepares to join his new club ahead of the upcoming season.
Following his transfer to Everton, Iroegbunam wrote on social media: ”Delighted to join this massive club @everton!
“I’m filled with excitement with the opportunity to play at Goodison in front of you all.”
“Can’t wait to give this club everything I’ve got.
Up the toffee.”
Who is Everton’s first summer signing Tim Iroegbunam
Timothy Emeka Iroegbunam, born 30 June 2003 to Nigerian parents is an English footballer who plays as a midfielder for Premier League club Everton.
Tim Iroegbunam’s football career and achievements
Having come up through the ranks of both the West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa youth systems, the young talent has honed his skills and gained valuable experience.
A loan spell at Queens Park Rangers in the EFL Championship during the 2022-23 season provided him with additional playing time and the chance to further develop his game.
His potential has also been recognized on the international stage, having represented England at both the under-19 and under-20 levels.
Notably, he was part of the team that claimed victory at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2022.
Tim Iroegbunam’s background
Born in England, Iroegbunam is of Nigerian descent and also represents the England national team.
His salary
Tim Iroegbunam earns an annual salary of £260,000 for the 2023-2024 Season, equivalent to £5,000 per week, not including bonuses.
What’s next?
Everton fans will be eager to see how Iroegbunam will fit into the team and contribute to their performance on the pitch as they look to make a strong push in the upcoming campaign.
