Everton have confirmed the signing of free agent Andy Lonergan in unorthodox fashion, with Rafa Benitez confirming the signing in his press conference.
The decision to bring in the ex-Leeds and Preston shot-stopper came after an injury to young ‘keeper Harry Tyrer, whilst Benitez also confirmed the news that Joao Virginia is expected to be loaned out.
As per reports, Virginia is set to join Sporting on loan in his home country, with the Lisbon-based outfit retaining an option to buy the player for a modest fee.
Virginia will replace the outgoing Luis Maximiano who joined La Liga side Granada on a long-term deal.
Consequentially, Lonergan has penned a one-year deal and will serve as a deputy to Jordan Pickford and fellow summer goalkeeping arrival Asmir Begovic.
As shared by Sky Sports on Twitter, the first official mention came from Benitez himself in today’s press conference as opposed to through club channels on social media or their website.
Lonergan is a former Liverpool-affiliated figure much like Benitez, having served as a backup during Liverpool’s title-winning 2019/20 season.
Similarly, he now finds himself in the blue half of Merseyside as he looks to serve the club in a stop-gap capacity.
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Given the hole in the squad, recruiting the well-travelled and experienced shot-stopper makes sense.
He is familiar and comfortable with more of a back-seat role, having recently operated in similar roles at Liverpool, Stoke and West Brom.
