Everton agree surprise Ainsley Maitland-Niles fee for deadline-day transfer out of nowhere

Everton have agreed a fee out of nowhere to sign Lyon defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Known for his time at Arsenal, the Englishman is primarily a right-back now, but can also play in midfield if needed.

David Moyes has been on the hunt for a new face on the right side of his defence, and many thought it would be Kenny Tete.

Fulham's struggles to sign a replacement could see the Netherlands star miss out on a move to Merseyside for a second time

Instead, Maitland-Niles is on his way to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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How much will Everton pay for Ainsley Maitland-Niles?

This could turn out to be an absolute bargain.

Mark McAdam has reported via X that Everton will pay Lyon just above £4.2million for the defender.

The Sky Sports journalist goes on to state that Maitland-Niles will travel to England for his medical within hours.

Maitland-Niles was into the final year of his current deal at Lyon, and will return to the Premier League before the 11pm deadline.

Who else will Everton sign?

It's safe to assume that Tete will no longer be arriving from the capital before the late-night deadline.

Everton are instead focused on the other side of the pitch alongside Maitland-Niles' ongoing move.

Jack Grealish is currently undergoing his medical, with his second loan likely the first incoming signing of the day announced.

Everton have also agreed a package over £40m to sign Folarin Balogun from Monaco, in a second attacking addition.

With those two nearly wrapped up, Maitland-Niles could be the third and final new face on Merseyside before tonight.