According to reports from The Liverpool Echo this afternoon, former Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley snubbed Arsenal to join Everton on a free transfer this morning.
The 25 year-old’s performances during the Red Devils’ last title campaign (2012/13) saw him break into Roy Hodgson England squad. But Cleverley struggled for form under David Moyes in the following season and spent last year out on loan at Aston Villa, scoring thrice in 31 Premier League appearances.
The Three Lions starlet’s Old Trafford contract expired at the end of last month and he officially joined Everton under the bosman ruling this morning, teaming up with Toffees gaffer Roberto Martinez – who signed Cleverley on a season-long loan in 2010 whilst in charge at Wigan.
Curiously, however, The Liverpool Echo claim the midfielder turned down contract offers from several other Premier League clubs in the process, including Champions League regulars Arsenal.
It follows reports from Sky Sports in April claiming the Gunners and north London rivals Tottenham were both targeting the 5 foot 9 centre-mid.
Cleverley has revealed that working with Martinez was the biggest factor in his decision to snub the Emirates in favour of Goodison Park.
“I think Roberto is a great manager and I’m massively looking forward to working with him again,” said the England international.
“We obviously had a year at Wigan together that I really enjoyed. He knows me and he knows how I like to play, so hopefully we can hit it off again come the start of the season.
He added; “Playing at Goodison Park is something that excites me. “I’ve always said it’s one of the hardest places to come as an away player because it creates one of the best atmospheres, especially when the team is on top.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing there – it’s one of those really exciting grounds and I’m genuinely excited to be here.”