Jack Grealish has finally been announced as an Everton player.
David Moyes has now got his wish with the Friedkins making the marquee signing they were hoping for this summer.
Everton raise the curtain on Monday against Leeds United at Elland Road, and Moyes now has a big-name signing to field in Grealish.
The 29-year-old has joined on loan for the 2025/26 campaign from Manchester City, with an option to make the deal permanent.
It has been suggested that Everton will need to pay £50m to sign Grealish next summer, but the forward has already shared his delight to be on Merseyside.
Former Everton striker Wayne Rooney has even taken matter into his own hands to help progress the move, having spoken to the England international.
Jack Grealish spoke to Wayne Rooney about Everton transfer
Grealish will wear number 18 in tribute to Rooney and Paul Gascoigne, who he has admitted were his idols growing up.
But the relationship with Rooney goes further, with Grealish sharing a conversation he had with the former Everton star.
Speaking to Everton TV after signing for the Blues, Grealish shed some light on what he spoke to Rooney about.
“There is a reason for [choosing number 18],” he said. “There were other numbers but my two favourite English players ever are Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne and I know they both wore number 18 here.
“So, as soon as I knew this deal was close, I had a look and number 18 was free, so that was perfect for me and it was the only number I was going to take from that point.
“I spoke to Wayne [Rooney] before I came here and I mentioned that to him – about the number 18 – so I hope he’s happy as well!”
Erling Haaland has wished Grealish luck at Everton, with the pair sharing a strong bond over at the Etihad Stadium.
Now, it is time for Grealish to settle at Finch Farm and showcase the quality fans know he holds.
David Moyes excited by Grealish signing at Everton
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall said Everton are showing ambition through their incredible new stadium, but the addition of Grealish takes things to another level.
Of course, Grealish has a lot of work to do to get himself back within the England national side picture, but this is a real coup for Everton.
Moyes now has another attacking threat to add to his squad, and the 62-year-old has shared his excitement over landing the Englishman.
“I think we’re getting him at a good time because he’s experienced, he understands the Premier League, and we’re all fully aware of the levels he’s capable of performing to,” he said.
“I know Jack’s ambition is to get back into the England squad so hopefully we can help him achieve that over the course of the season.”
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