Allan is here.
In truth, the rumours had felt a little different.
Everton remained tight-lipped when the subject of Allan was raised and Ancelotti remained an admirer. The sticking point was the price-tag and a notoriously hard negotiator in the form of Napoli chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis.
But Marcel Brands has carried it over the line for what must be considered good business.
Is Allan an upgrade on what Everton have now? Yes. With international experience, Champions League appearances and the added caveat of knowing what Ancelotti wants from his midfield system, it looks to be the perfect deal.
Add that to the further excitement around the corner.
Allan is likely to be joined by both Abdoulaye Doucoure and Real Madrid superstar James Rodriguez in the next week to help revolutionise the midfield and kick-start the Ancelotti reign.
A world-class manager is being given world-class players to work with. It is a change in strategy from the business Brands has conducted over previous windows but signings like Jarrad Branthwaite ensure Everton remain youthful at the core.
Allan is arriving as the midfield destroyer Everton have lacked since the departure of Idrissa Gana Gueye.
And what about the last player to possess all of the individual qualities the Brazilian has?
Marouane Fellaini maybe? Thomas Gravesen? Allan will no doubt be taken to heart by the Goodison Park faithful when they safely return.
For now, that is the only down-side to the exciting transfer business taking shape on L4. Everton supporters deserve to watch these players wearing Royal Blue in the flesh.
But they won't mind as long as they are winning football matches.
And that is what Allan is here to do.
He is not here for the long-term project or for resale value in a couple years time.
He is here to help Ancelotti do what he does best - putting points on the board and winning games no matter what it takes.
Brands steered a hard bargain with Napoli and has given his manager the player he wanted all along.
The first piece of a new jigsaw has arrived and the rest could be even more exciting as they slot in along Mason Holgate, Lucas Digne, Andre Gomes and Richarlison.
The Ancelotti era starts now.
*Do you play Fantasy Premier League? Do you back yourself to use your chips in the right gameweeks, and nail your captain every single time? Now is your chance to prove it – and win some prizes in the process.
