JEFFERS IN £8m GUNNERS SWITCH

The Gunners fought of interest from Newcastle for his services, who are also believed to have agreed a deal, and Gunners boss Arsene Wenger was delighted with his capture as he bids to build a side capable of dethroning Premiership kings Manchester United.

"Francis is a young striker with great potential. Although still only 20, he has a great deal of experience at Premier League level. He has proved with his performances for Everton that he will be a great asset to our Club," Wenger said.

Jeffers, a lifelong Evertonian, is a product of the club's youth system and has smashed 20 goals for the club from just 45 starts. But he has often clashed with the clubs hierarchy and handed in a transfer request at the tender age of 18, which was turned down by the club.

He was offered a new contract to stay on Merseyside, but turned down the club's five-year deal worth an estimated £8 million stating his desire to quit the club when his current deal expired.

However, the cash-strapped Toffee's have decided to cash in on their prize asset now to avoid the risk of losing him for free when his contract expires in the summer of 2002.

Despite an injury-ravaged 2000/01 campaign, Jeffers still managed an impressive seven goals from 12 starts and the Liverpudlian said he was relishing the prospect of meeting up with his new teammates in July.

"I am delighted to join Arsenal. It's a football club with great tradition and world-class players," he said.

"I am looking forward to meeting all my new team mates and helping Arsenal win some honours next season."

Jeffers will wear the number nine shirt at Highbury next season and the fee for him could rise to £10 million depending on appearances. His arrival will also cast a shadow over the Highbury futures of Sylvain Wiltord, Dennis Bergkamp and Nigerian ace Kanu.

Everton may use some of the transfer fee to make a bid for Anderlecht striker Thomas Radzinski.