Everton have agreed a deal to take Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala on loan for the remainder of the season, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper report in their live transfer blog (Wednesday, 15:41) that the Toffees will pay a loan fee of around £1million for the 26-year-old France international.
The Mirror claim that Everton will have the option of making the move a permanent one for £15million in the summer.
It is said that Mangala is undergoing a medical at the club this afternoon, after choosing to join the Toffees over potential moves to Newcastle and West Ham.
Sam Allardyce reportedly wants to bring in defensive reinforcements, and Mangala’s ability to play both centre-back and left-back was a big draw.
Good move for Everton?
This move could go one of two ways.
Mangala may continue his poor form from City at Everton, having played just 79 times in four years at the Etihad.
Or, he could revitalise his career on Merseyside, which could mean Everton have pulled off a stroke of deadline day genius.
Mangala was seen as one of Europe’s best defenders when he arrived at City from Porto, and if he can rediscover that form then £15million at the end of the season will be a snip.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
This one looks to be sewn up.
All thats left is an official announcement from the club confirming the deal.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10