Everton pinch Josh King from Fulham’s grasp in dramatic last-gasp deadline day transfer from Bournemouth

JOSH KING has snubbed Fulham’s survival battle to join Everton’s push for Europe.

The striker looked primed to sign for the Cottagers as the seconds ticked down on deadline day.

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Everton have secured Joshua King until the end of the seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

But Premier League rivals Everton joined a dramatic tug-of-war until around 9.45pm last night – before the Bournemouth striker made his decision to head to Goodison Park.

He was then discussing personal terms as time ticked down on the 11pm transfer deadline.

King, who had only six months left on his Cherries deal, has only agreed a short-term deal until the end of the season.

Fulham instead signed former Sunderland kid Josh Maja on loan from Bordeaux.

King, 29, was promised lots of game time by Fulham but they were unable to convince the Norwegian to sign.

Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti wanted King to replace outgoing Turkish striker Cenk Tosun who is returning to his homeland to join Besiktas on loan until the end of the season.

And the Norwegian will now lend more firepower to the Toffees’ push for a top seven finish.

Bournemouth were eager to get a fee for King, who has been angling for a move since their relegation last season.

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King has netted 53 times for Bournemouth in 184 games, including five seasons in the top flight.

In the 2016-17 season, no Premier League player outside of the top seven scored more goals than King.

And he will hope to earn a long-term deal, either at Everton or elsewhere during his short spell on Merseyside.

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