Everton are close to fully agreeing on the signing of Demarai Gray from Bayer Leverkusen. The German club signed Gray permanently from Leicester City on the deadline day of the winter transfer window, 2021. He is now on the verge of returning to England, and featuring in a different shade of blue.

The Toffees have agreed on a contract until 2024 with the winger, and are set to match his buyout clause worth €2 million. He currently has a year left on his deal with Leverkusen and is not going to stay to see out the rest of his time in Germany.

Everton are closing on signing Demarai Gray from Bayer Leverkusen, confirmed. Deal now at final stages, buy out clause around €2m – contract until 2024. 🔵 #EFC

Crystal Palace also made a bid but Everton are working to finalize the deal. Begovic and Townsend are joining too. https://t.co/tx4M2QqJy1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 19, 2021

Rafa Benitez personally wanted the player at Goodison Park ahead of the new season, and he is now days away from getting his man. Gray made 10 appearances for Leverkusen in the Bundesliga and scored one goal while setting up two.

He is a naturally fast player and offers the width to the attack that Everton currently lack. Andros Townsend is also going to join Everton from Crystal Palace. The Eagles were interested in bringing Gray over, but Everton made the right moves to secure personal terms with the youngster.

Fans have received the transfer decision made by Everton positively, and have pointed out the quality and speed he brings to the attack. They are also expecting more players to join the squad ahead of the new season.

Everton have also signed former Chelsea keeper Asmir Begovic until 2023, which makes him the first signing of the Benitez era.