Everton agree Weir signing

Everton have beaten city rivals Liverpool to the signing of Scottish international defender David Weir.

The 28 year old was the subject of talks two weeks ago between Liverpool and the Scottish Premier Division side who were trying to raise funds to stave off a relegation struggle in the spring. Weir was for sale to the Anfield club for two million pounds but the deal was never completed freeing Everton and their Scottish manager Walter Smith free to approach the central defender who played at the last World Cup for Scotland.

Everton have been looking for a replacement for veteran captain Dave Watson in the centre of their defence. Watson has been their outstanding player again this season but the 37 year old knows his time at the very top is starting to run out and the Merseyside club are looking to the future with a pre-contract agreement to sign Weir in the summer.