Everton are on course to wrap up their fourth transfer of the summer window as Leeds United winger Jack Harrison is undergoing medical at Finch Farm. EFC have prioritized strengthening the attack as Harrison would become the third attacking signing of the summer.
The Toffees have acquired Youssef Chermiti and Arnaut Danjuma to bolster their forward line. Sean Dyche had been keen to add more options to the front line amid uncertainty over the future of Demarai Gray. The Jamaican has been strongly linked with a move away with plenty of suitors keen to sign the former Leicester City man.
Crystal Palace and Fulham are in the race with the exit of Gray likely before the transfer window slams shut on 1st September. The Toffees will need a replacement for the 27 year old and have been linked to various names. Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto remained one of the top targets for EFC with the Toffees pushing since April and having agreement on personal terms with Gnonto since July.
Everton secure Jack Harrison on loan beating Aston Villa in the race
However, the Whites’ stance is clear that the 19 year old starlet is not for sale. The relationship between Gnonto and Leeds is fractured and seems beyond repair as the player has not made himself available for selection. As the saga continues to unravel, EFC have quickly managed to reach an agreement with another Leeds winger, Harrison.
According to The Athletic, Harrison is undergoing medical at Finch Farm as the Merseysiders have triggered a clause in Harrison’s deal that will see them sign him on a season long loan deal with an option to buy. Personal terms with the English winger are in place and the move could happen very smoothly.
Aston Villa held interest in the 26 year old and as per the latest reports, even thought of hijacking the deal. After the Everton medicals, Villa manager Unai Emery spoke to Harrison and tried to entice him to Villa Park. Aston Villa also booked a medical but Harrison’s injury that will keep him out for five to six weeks put the Villians into doubt.
Finally, EFC have got their man as Harrison joins Everton on loan after some crazy pendulum swings after late Aston Villa intervention. However, the Toffees have successfully signed Harrison (pending official announcement) with the medical also completed.
The 26 year old adds depth in the wing and becomes a possible Gray replacement if the former Leicester winger leaves the club.
Will Jack Harrison flourish for EFC?