Fleetwood Town have completed the signing of Callum Connolly.

The 22-year-old arrives from Everton on a loan deal which runs until the end of the season.

Connolly spent the first half of the season on loan with League One side Lincoln City before being recalled by the Toffees at the start of January.

A versatile player who can play anywhere in defence or midfield, Joey Barton said that he is delighted to attract the Everton starlet to the club.

Speaking to the club website, Barton said: “We are really pleased to have brought Callum to the club.

“He is someone that we have been tracking for some time, so when the opportunity arose to bring him into our group we jumped at the chance.

“I feel that he will add to already strong group of characters that we have in the building, and we all look forward to seeing him perform for Fleetwood Town.”

The verdict

The move for Callum Connolly is a real coup for Fleetwood Town.

The 22-year-old impressed during his time with Lincoln City, and after coming through the ranks with Everton, it's thought that he's ready to kick on and play more regular first team football.

Playing under Joey Barton will be a really good experience for the youngster and the hope is that he'll be able to help Fleetwood up the league.