Man Utd confirm third deadline-day signing with arrival of 102-cap defender

Manchester United have confirmed Jonny Evans has signed a one-year deal with the club.

The defender rejoined the Red Devils on a short-term deal earlier this summer, which expired on 31 August. Erik ten Hag admitted last month that he wanted the former Leicester City man to remain at the club into the season, and United confirmed on deadline day that Evans has penned a permanent deal which runs to June 2024.

Speaking after the announcement was made, Evans said: “I am delighted to join Manchester United, a place which has always felt like home. This club and the fans have shaped me as a player and as a person since I was 15 years-old, and I am delighted to be back where it all began as part of this talented squad.

“I’ve really enjoyed working under the manager and his coaching staff since the start of pre-season, and I’m looking forward to helping this group achieve success together at this fantastic football club.”

Evans, who has been capped 102 times by Northern Ireland, began his career at United after coming through the youth ranks. The centre-back played 198 times and won three Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson. He was sold in 2015 to West Bromwich Albion and subsequently went on to play for Leicester, who he left at the end of last season.

Evans is expected to play back-up to the first team this season and is likely to be fifth choice at the heart of defence, after Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire. But his experience and knowhow could prove invaluable for Ten Hag, especially if injury does strike, as is the case with Varane at present.

Evans is yet to play for United since returning over the summer, but could be in this Sunday's matchday squad to face Arsenal at the Emirates.