Everton close in on Johnny Heitinga

Everton are set to land Johnny Heitinga in a £5million move after the Dutch star agreed to compromise on his wage demands.

The transfer had stalled over Heitinga’s demands for almost £80,000-a-week, which would have made him the best-paid player in Everton’s history.

But a deal was struck on Monday night after a day of intense negotiations between Everton officials and Heitinga’s representatives.

Heitinga, 25, is due to jet in to Merseyside on Tuesday to have his medical and complete his move.

David Moyes is delighted with the breakthrough in talks and is confident the deal can be wrapped up before the 5pm deadline.

Moyes is attracted by his versatility and he can play right-back, centre-half or as a defensive midfielder.

Steven Pienaar played alongside Heitinga at Ajax and believes his pal will be a great addition to the Everton squad.

“I know Johnny really well,” said Pienaar. “He’s a good defender, a good professional and his record shows that as he’s played for Ajax, Atletico and Holland.

“He’d be a great signing for us. He can play in a few positions - right-back, centre-back or just in front of the defence. He’s a quality player.

“If he comes in, it would bring more football to the team also. He’s good on the ball and it would be a massive plus for us. You want to see players of his quality come to the club.”

Moyes is determined to sign two more players before the transfer window closes and is still chasing Valencia’s Ever Banega.

Moyes wants to Banega on a season-long loan deal and has secured a work permit, but has yet to get the green light from the Argentinian midfielder.