Everton have signed Nigerian international midfielder Joseph Yobo for œ5 million, subject to the player being granted a work permit.

“As far as I’m concerned, he is Nigeria’s best player and I’m sure he’ll go on to captain his country,” said Everton manager David Moyes.ÿ

“He played in several different positions for his country at the World Cup, so we have a great opportunity to use him where we see fit. He’s also got terrific pace and is a good all-round player.”

“He played in all three games, one at right-back, one in central midfield and one at centre-half,” continued Moyes.

“That last appearance was against Michael Owen. He played centre-half for Marseille, but Juventus were looking to sign him as a replacement for Thuram. He is young and will improve.”

Everton have signed the player on an initial one-year contract with an option to renew that by a further four years next summer.