Everton complete Bilyaletdinov signing

(GETTY IMAGES)

Everton have confirmed the signing of Russia midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov from Lokomotiv Moscow for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old met with Toffees officials yesterday in Hamburg - he is permitted to enter Germany with a Russian passport without a visa - and signed a five-year contract.

Bilyaletdinov will now return to his homeland to complete the formalities of a visa application to enter the UK.

"We are delighted to have secured the services of Diniyar," Everton chief executive Robert Elstone told the club's website.

"I know David Moyes has wanted to bring him to Goodison for some time and we look forward to welcoming him."

Bilyaletdinov will not be eligible for Thursday's Europa League play-off second leg against Sigma Olomouc and is unlikely to be in England for Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash with Wigan.

He is due in the UK early next month for Russia's World Cup qualifier against Wales and is expected to link up with his new team-mates for the first time ahead of the following weekend's trip to Fulham.

The 6ft 1in player has won 28 caps for his country and played in every game during last summer's memorable run to the Euro 2008 semi-finals under Guus Hiddink.