Everton finally secure Newcastle and England wonderkid Lewis Gibson in potential £6million deal
Ronald Koeman beats Tottenham to land highly-rated teen starlet on three-year contract from Magpies
EVERTON have won the race to sign Newcastle’s teen starlet Lewis Gibson for a potential £6million fee.
The England youth defender, who turned 17 last week, has agreed a three-year contract at Goodison Park.
That sparked interest from the Toffees and Tottenham, but it is Ronald Koeman who has secured the talented centre-half.
Gibson, who will link-up with with David Unsworth’s Under-23 squad at Goodison, told : “Everton is a brilliant club and when the opportunity presented itself I wanted to be part of it.
“The reputation has long been there that Everton brings through young players.
“You only have to look at the likes of Tom Davies, Kieran Dowell, Jonjoe Kenny and several others who are battling for first-team places to know this.
“I’m a player who is willing to put my body on the line, the kind of defender who likes to tackle and is not afraid.
“I’m excited to be part of things here and I want to continue developing as a player. This is where I want to be.”
Gibson only had a year remaining on his scholarship with Newcastle – meaning he could have terminated it at any time during the final 12 months.
Everton were leading the race for his signature as they tried to thrash out an agreed fee.
It has not been confirmed whether a figure was agreed upon, but if they were unable to settle on a valuation then the Court of Arbitration for Sport will determine the amount.
That could amount to a total of £6m.
His loss is a huge blow for the North East outfit as they attempt to try and bring as many youngsters through their system as possible.
Gibson began his career with Middlesbrough before leaving them to join Newcastle.
He has won 16 caps for England at Under-17 level and scored two goals.
