Everton have signed Argentine midfielder Carlos Alcaraz on loan from Flamengo for the remainder of the season.
Flamengo had said the loan includes a “mandatory purchase clause”, subject to the parties meeting certain unspecified conditions, but Everton say there is an “option” to buy at the end of the season.
The 22-year-old previously played in the Premier League for Southampton and started the season with the Saints, before joining the Brazilian giants for a club-record £16m fee.
But Alcaraz, who also had a loan spell at Juventus, makes a quick return to England and is the first signing made by Toffees owners the Friedkin Group and manager David Moyes.
“I am ready for any challenge with this beautiful club so that is why I came and accepted the offer to keep fighting for my dreams,” Alcaraz told the club’s website.
“I want to tell the fans that whenever I wear this shirt, I will give my best, I will give everything I have to take Everton to the top, which is where they deserve to be.”
The transfer was officially announced by Everton at 00:15 GMT after sending in a deal sheet to the Premier League, which allowed an extension until 01:00 GMT to complete the deal.
A source close to the player told BBC Sport the delay was because of discussions taking place regarding a clause in the player’s contract.
Alcaraz is a welcome addition to Everton’s midfield following the season-ending knee injury suffered by Belgium international Orel Mangala.
Moyes added: “Carlos has Premier League experience, he is still young and we believe he can bring some energy to the team which will help us between now and the end of the season.”
