It has been reported by the Liverpool Echo this morning that Everton are leading the race to sign highly-rated Newcastle United left-back Lewis Gibson.
The report suggests Everton face stiff competition for the talented 16 year-old, with Celtic, Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal and Southampton all showing interest in the defender.
Gibson is an England U-17 international and has enjoyed an impressive start to life on Tyneside.
He has shone in the U-18’s and has recently become a regular in Peter Beardsley’s U-23 side – an impressive feat for a 16 year old. The Stanley born defender was also one of the stars in NUFC’s run to the FA Youth Cup quarter finals this season.
Newcastle will have no intention of selling one of our brightest young talents, but until the club secure the youngster on a long-term professional contract, high flying Everton could pose a real threat.
Ronald Koeman is hoping for an injection of fresh talent to his Everton ranks this summer, with Director of football Steve Walsh heading a intensive recruitment drive of youth talent – and Gibson is said to be high up on his wish list.