He was a top target for West Ham, who made three offers, the last of which was €35m plus €5m in add-ons and managed to agree on a fee with Lille.
But they could not agree on personal terms with the player, which gave Everton the chance to come and hijack the move.
Everton’s initial offer was rejected but it has been claimed that they improved on the bid by offering €36m plus €4m and 20 per cent of the profits if they sell him in the future.
They are now closing in on him but, according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, there remains a small detail between Everton and the player to resolve.
Everton and Lille are now finalising the details of the deal before a final agreement is reached between the two clubs.
Frank Lampard has been pushing to sign Onana as he seeks to add more quality to his squad.
As things stand, the 20-year-old has already arrived on Merseyside to complete the formalities of the transfer.
It remains to be seen whether he will be in the stands at Goodison Park when Everton host Chelsea on Saturday.
