Everton reach agreement with Lyon for fullback Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Everton have secured an agreement with Olympique Lyon to sign fullback Ainsley Maitland-Niles for €5 million. The 29-year-old is expected to arrive in the UK today to finalize the transfer. This move addresses a vacancy in the Everton squad at the right-back position following the expected departure of Nathan Patterson, who is reportedly undergoing a medical in Italy with Torino. The club previously explored a deal for Kenny Tete from Fulham, but that pursuit stalled due to complications involving his potential replacement at the London club. Maitland-Niles enters the deal in the final year of his contract with the French side, where he recorded six goals and 16 assists across 119 appearances. His versatility is a factor for Everton, as he has played in nearly every outfield position throughout his career.

• 11:37 AMYahoo Sports — Everton have agreement with Lyon for versatile fullback