Everton clinch Jags signing

Everton have signed Phil Jagielka from Sheffield United for £4million.

There has been a three-way tussle for Jagielka in recent weeks, with Bolton and Wigan also enquiring after the versatile midfielder.

However Everton, who had already had an offer knocked back by The Blades, have now clinched a deal for Jagielka.

The 24-year-old announced at the end of last season he was looking to leave Bramall Lane, following Sheffield United's relegation from the Premiership.

United were determined to keep Jagielka and had hoped he would stay if their appeal over West Ham's Carlos Tevez was successful.

However, they lost their fight to be reinstated to the Premier League and have now allowed Jagielka to join Everton.

Jagielka has put pen-to-paper on a five-year contract and David Moyes is sure to entrust him with a key role next term.

Moyes is looking to assemble a squad capable of challenging for a top four place in the Premier League over the next few seasons.

"We have been trying to get Phil in for most of the summer," Moyes told the club's official website.

"We are delighted to have got him in the end. He will bring competition for places and versatility.

"He is a good addition to our squad and we hope to add one or two more before the start of the season."