Everton confirm signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Conor Coady

Everton have confirmed that they have signed Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Conor Coady.

The Toffees had already been linked with a move for the England international before Ben Godfrey sustained a fractured leg against Chelsea on Saturday evening.

However, on a day when Coady remained an unused substitute in Wolves' defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road, the respective developments led to a stronger desire to reach a resolution as soon as possible.

Since Sunday morning, it has been widely claimed that the relevant parties have been involved in negotiations, the indication being that Wolves have been prepared to loan out their influential captain to a potential rival.

Both clubs have now confirmed that a temporary transfer has been completed, the 29-year-old making a return to his roots having grown up on Merseyside.

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Speaking to the club's official website, Coady said: "It's incredible to join Everton. As soon as I heard the interest, from the manager but also the football club itself, I really wanted to be part of it straight away. I'm over the moon to join.

"I've grown up around the city, I know the football club, how big this club is and what it means to the supporters. I'm someone who was desperate to come here, to play for this club. I've got family and friends who are massive Evertonians.

"I'm here to give absolutely everything I've got for this football club. It's important I work as hard as I can to help my teammates, help the club move forward and make people proud."

The England international departs Wolves after a legendary seven-year stint in the West Midlands, the midfielder-turned-defender making a total of 317 appearances in all competitions.

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During that time, he led the club to the Championship title in Nuno Espirito Santo's first year in charge before helping Wolves cement themselves in the Premier League.

However, head coach Bruno Lage has taken the decision to switch to a back four, leaving Coady as no more than third choice behind Nathan Collins and Max Kilman.

Meanwhile, Frank Lampard lined up with a back three against Chelsea at the weekend, and Coady will slot seamlessly in the middle position of that setup.

Coady, who came through the youth setup at Liverpool and made two outings in the first team, could make his Everton debut against Aston Villa on Saturday.