Everton have announced the signing of Ashley Williams from Swansea City on a three-year deal.
The Wales international, who captained his nation to the semi-finals at Euro 2016, has opted to end an eight-year spell at the Liberty Stadium.
#WelcomeAshley pic.twitter.com/abMo9ml1zS
— Everton (@Everton) August 10, 2016
The Merseyside outfit were initially knocked back in their pursuit of Williams, but a deal - thought to be worth £12m - has now been finalised.
Williams paid tribute to his former club Swansea, who signed the defender in 2008 from Stockport County, but has admitted that being part of Ronald Koeman's regime was too good to turn down.
"I've had eight great years at Swansea and, for me, the new challenge was something I felt I needed, so I'm delighted to have joined Everton," Williams told the club's official website. "Everton is a great club with an unbelievable manager - a world legend in football - and I believe the club is going in the right direction. This is something I wanted to be a part of.
"I look forward to seeing what the manager's plans are for me and the team. He's been one of the greatest centre-halves to ever play the game, so I look forward to learning from him and seeing what he can teach me. I really can't wait to get out there at Goodison. I've always enjoyed playing on the Goodison pitch, so it will be nice to be an Everton player and experience what it's all about when I'm part of the home team.
"What Everton fans can expect of me is an honest player, a hard-working player who will try to do as good as I can for my teammates and the club. I'm not always perfect but I always have the right intentions and I try to leave it all out there on the pitch. I'm excited about meeting my new teammates, staff and focussing on the season ahead. Personal thanks to Ronald Koeman, Steve Walsh, Everton chairman Bill Kenwright and my representatives at New Era Global Sports for making this fantastic opportunity possible.
"Obviously, Swansea was very memorable for me and I would like to thank every single fan, my former and current teammates and all of the Swansea family for their unconditional support and friendship. I wish everyone at Swansea all the best for the future and they will always hold a special place in my heart."
Williams's arrival comes the day after John Stones left to join Manchester City in a £47.5m deal.
Everton's new defender could make his debut in Saturday's Premier League opener against Tottenham Hotspur.
Danielle Joynson
