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.
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.
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.
