Everton have completed the signing of teenage defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The 17-year-old joins from Carlisle United and signs a two-and-a-half year deal.
Branthwaite was in the stands in Southport tonight to watch Everton’s under-23s draw 3-3 with Arsenal in a Premier League 2 game. The Blues have beaten off competition from several clubs to secure the defender’s services.
Branthwaite had been watched by Everton scouts on several occasions and the club’s interest intensified in the last week.
Carlisle have described the transfer fee - thought to be around £750,000 - as “substantial” and have confirmed there are performance related clauses in the deal.
Branthwaite said: “I’ve seen those players get their chance in the first team and do well.
“I just can’t wait to get started. Everton is a big club and I’m buzzing to be here.
“The facilities at USM Finch Farm are unbelievable. I like everything about the place.
“I want to settle in, get to know all the boys and put in some good performances for the Under-23s.
“My long-term goal, 100 per cent, is to play for Everton first team in front of the great crowds at Goodison. That would be my dream.”
