Lucas Digne close to Everton move

Lucas Digne’s transfer to Everton is all but complete. He has been permitted by the club to leave the US tour, and the 24-year old Frenchman has returned to Barcelona.

Digne is in the Catalan capital to finalise the details of the deal before flying to Liverpool to complete the move to Everton.

The defender went on to post a heartwarming message on Instagram which seemed to confirm his exit. Digne wrote, “The last two years have been a dream of a child that I have been able to realise – I want to say thank you very much to all.”

“First to the club that has given me everything since I arrived, thanks to all the physios, the staff with whom I have worked, the physical trainers, the security people, the kitchen staff, all make the club a family.”

“The fans that are always next to the team and that have given me a lot of warmth for two years. The city of Barcelona that will always stay with me for what I have lived and for the people who are incredible at all times.”

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“And finally my colleagues who as well as being the best players in the world, are amazing people who always help you. All that to say that Barça is more than a club is an incredible family. A very strong hug to all and good luck for the season.”

He was an utility player for Ernesto Valverde and his predecessor, Luis Enrique, who sanctioned his signing from Paris Saint-Germain. Digne could never hope to compete with Jordi Alba for a spot in the first-team, but he provided the Spaniard with adequate backup.

Everton will be paying a fee in the region of €25 million, allowing Barça to pocket a tidy profit of €8 million. The Toffees want him to succeed Leighton Baines as the first-choice left-back, with Marco Silva specifically requesting his signing.

The club will not have to look for a replacement for Lucas Digne. La Masia graduate Marc Cucurella was impressive for Barça B last season, and he is expected to be promoted to the first-team squad this season. The 19-year old left-back can also act as a successor to Jordi Alba.