Everton sign Ashley Williams from Swansea City

Everton have completed the signing of Ashley Williams from Swansea City.

The 31-year-old defender has opted to end an eight-year spell at the Liberty Stadium after signing with the Merseyside outfit on a three-year deal.

The Wales international, who joined the Swans in 2008 from Stockport County, paid tribute to Francesco Guidolin’s side.

#WelcomeAshley pic.twitter.com/abMo9ml1zS

— Everton (@Everton) August 10, 2016

“I’ve had eight great years at Swansea and, for me, the new challenge was something I felt I needed, so I’m delighted to have joined Everton,” the centre-back told the club’s official website.

“Everton is a great club with an unbelievable manager – a world legend in football – and I believe the club is going in the right direction. This is something I wanted to be a part of.

Williams could make be a part of Everton’s Premier League opener against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.