Everton completes last-second loan swoop for City's Mangala
Aymeric Laporte's arrival at Manchester City made one of Pep Guardiola's centre-backs surplus to requirements, and Everton took full advantage.
Nearly two hours after the January window closed, Everton announced a loan move for City's Eliaquim Mangala, with the Frenchman making the Merseyside pilgrimage until the end of the season.
"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to play for Everton and I cannot wait to pull on the royal blue jersey for the first time and give my all for the supporters," Mangala told the club's website.
🔵 | Incoming! Eliaquim Mangala joins the Blues on loan, subject to @PremierLeague clearance. pic.twitter.com/5rqtEwwfZj
— Everton (@Everton) February 1, 2018
For Mangala, an opportunity to compete for first-team minutes with Phil Jagielka, Michael Keane, and Ashley Williams should give the eight-time capped international a chance to draw France boss Didier Deschamps' interest ahead of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Mangala, 26, joined City in 2014 from Porto. It was all downhill from there, with the robust defender making a temporary switch to Valencia last season before returning to City in the summer. This year, Mangala has made just 15 appearances in all competitions.