Sunderland have expressed their disappointment that Francis Okoronkwo has left them after Everton officially unveiled his signing following a £1million transfer.
The forward has joined the academy ranks at Finch Farm after completing a move from Wearside and it is hoped he can make his debut for the under-18s in the coming weeks.
The 16-year-old is set to turn 17 later this month and will be eligible to sign professional terms with Everton when that comes around.
The seven-figure deal with the League One side was agreed earlier in the summer but the Blues will only pay a fraction of that upfront, with the rest hinging on various clauses in the contract.
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Sunderland Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said : “We are disappointed that Francis and his family took the decision to leave the football club earlier this summer, as we demonstrated a clear pathway for him to continue his development into the first-team environment.
“Throughout the summer, we have displayed our ability to retain and attract young talent and we have started to honour our long-term commitment that our homegrown players will be integral to our philosophy and future success.
“Although we are disappointed Francis will not be a part of that process, we wish him and his family well.”
