Everton Women sign Honoka Hayashi

Everton have completed the signing of Japan international Honoka Hayashi, subject to international clearance.

An intelligent midfielder praised for her intricate passing, the 26-year-old joins the Blues after a two-year spell with West Ham United where she made 50 appearances.

The dynamic playmaker has also enjoyed successful stints in Japan and Sweden with Cerezo Osaka and AIK respectively.

Hayashi becomes the third signing for Brian Sorensen’s side this summer, following the arrivals of forward Toni Payne and goalkeeper Ines Pereira, who has joined Deportivo de La Coruna on a season-long loan.

Ahead of representing her country in the upcoming Paris Olympics, Hayashi told evertonfc.com how excited she is to be representing the Blues.

"I am honoured to join such a big club as Everton,” she said.

“I was looking for a new challenge, and I will do everything I can to help the Club succeed.

"I am looking forward to playing in front of the amazing fans."

Manager Sorensen added: “It’s great to welcome Honoka to the Club.

“In our system with our central players, they need to be dynamic and comfortable on the ball. Honoka fits that perfectly.

“She’s a player who does her job well, works extremely hard and can work the ball in tight spaces.

“Honoka is someone I believe can help take our game to a new level.

“Having learnt more about this league over the past two years, it can be ruthless, and you need players with experience alongside the younger members of the group.

“I feel we have got that mix now. A mature but young team, which I believe is going to be key for us next season.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how Honoka can help play a part in that process.”

Everton FC