While we are firmly entrenched in the annual footballing silly-season we call the transfer window, new faces haven't really been the case for Everton thus far as the club appear to be focusing on continuity in the early stages of the summer. 

Indeed, Andre Gomes was finally signed permanently by the Toffees (via Sky Sports) and only for a meagre £22 million, less than what Barcelona initially paid for him (£29.3m, via BBC Sport) back in 2016. Just a few days after Leighton Baines extended his stay at Goodison Park by another year, it looks as if the club are getting their house in order.

Despite being linked to West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur, the midfielder has seemingly opted to move to Merseyside in what is clearly an important deal for the club.

Looking back at his impressive contribution from the heart of midfield last season, it's easy to see what he brings. Not only did his 84.8% passing accuracy help control games better, but 1.4 tackles and 1.7 dribbles per 90mins (stats WhoScored) added a bite and flair to keep the link between defence and attack very smooth.

John Collins praised the Portuguese midfielder while speaking to the club's official website (via Tribuna), hailing his ability on the ball, tackling and creative energy, suggesting the former Valencia man is somewhat of an all-rounder. Furthermore, perhaps when looking at his superiority in a midfield battle (stats via Squawka) over, for example, Manchester United’s Fred, who was signed for £52m, it looks like a real bargain.

Nick Ames of the Guardian described the Portugal international as looking like 'exactly the kind of player Everton require to compete with the top sides regularly' back in December, after all, so his permanent signing could be a useful tool in their battle to break into the top six.

Everton fans, are you pleased with sealing Gomes' signing permanently? Join the discussion by commenting below...