Everton sign FC Barcelona defender Fernández on permanent deal | OneFootball

Everton have completed the signing of FC Barcelona defender Martina Fernández on a permanent deal.

WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from The Toffees this afternoon.

Everton have paid an undisclosed fee to FC Barcelona to sign the Spanish youth international.

The 20-year-old returns to Everton on a permanant basis following a successful loan spell with the club in the second half of last season. Fernández helped the Merseyside club to recover from a difficult first half of the campaign and finish strongly. The defender’s performances in the second half of the campaign were recognised with Fernández picking up the club’s Young Player of the Season award.

Everton were keen to retain Fernández’s services and they have now been able to agree a permanent deal for the player.

After signing on with Everton, Fernández said “I’m so happy. The past five months were amazing because of everyone; the girls, the fans – everyone, so I couldn’t say no at the chance to come back.

“I can’t wait, honestly. This big, historical stadium – I will really enjoy playing in it.

“I think playing at Goodison Park is not just good for us, it is good for women’s football in general for us to start playing here and having this as our own stadium.”

Fernández is Everton’s seventh signing of the summer transfer window.