Prince Rupert's Tower
Fansided

Everton: Young talent Lewis Gibson set to become latest signing

By Paul Taylor

VOLUNTARI, ROMANIA - OCTOBER 30: Lewis Gibson of England passes the ball during the UEFA Under-17 EURO Qualifier between U17 Austria and U17 England on October 30, 2016 at Anghel Iordanescu stadium in Voluntari, Romania. (Photo by Ronny Hartmann/Getty Images)
VOLUNTARI, ROMANIA - OCTOBER 30: Lewis Gibson of England passes the ball during the UEFA Under-17 EURO Qualifier between U17 Austria and U17 England on October 30, 2016 at Anghel Iordanescu stadium in Voluntari, Romania. (Photo by Ronny Hartmann/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

With Everton reportedly on the verge of signing Newcastle United’s Lewis Gibson, we find out more about the highly-rated 16-year old.

Last season was a special one for the Everton Under-23s side. Managed by David Unsworth, they won the inaugural Premier League 2 title.

If recent events are any indication, Everton have no intention of resting on their laurels when it comes to the youth setup. Look no further than the signings of Josh Bowler and Boris Mathis.

However, the Blues are still not finished, as they look to build on last season’s success. According to the Daily Mail, they are set to sign another highly-rated youngster.

As per a report from the Mail‘s Sami Mokbel, Everton are close to agreeing terms with Newcastle United, for Lewis Gibson. If all goes to plan, the deal should be completed early next week.

More from Prince Rupert's Tower

Understandably, a lot of Evertonians will likely be unfamiliar with Gibson. In that respect, he is considered one of the brightest young talents in the country.

Further, signing the 16-year old would be a significant coup for Everton. Earlier reports had him linked to Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal, as well as Liverpool and Celtic.

Gibson is a left-footed defender, who mostly plays at left back but can also line up as a centre-half. He’s already enjoyed success at the international level, playing ever game for England’s under-17s at this year’s European Championships and helping them reach the final. (Where they lost to Spain on penalties.)

Even though the Stanley-born youngster is under contract with Newcastle for another year, it is only a scholarship, hence why he is free to talk to other teams. The Magpies have offered him a professional deal, but it now appears certain he will reject it, for the opportunity to move to Merseyside.

Obviously, losing Gibson would be a major blow for Newcastle, whose older brother Liam, also plays for United. In turn, this will be a big win for Steve Walsh, who is Everton’s Head of Recruitment.

Next: Attempting to understand David James' logic

Are you familiar at all with Gibson? If so, what is your take on the youngster? Further, what kind of season are you expecting from the Under-23s? How likely are they to once again win the Premier League 2 title? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Home/Transfer Rumors