Everton target and Dundee United youngster Kai Hutchison in training gear.
Everton target and Dundee United youngster Kai Hutchison in training gear.
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The Blues had been looking to sign the 16-year-old from the Tannadice side, but he had been undecided over his future.
Everton faced competition from Wolves and the Scottish side, who were desperate to keep him on board.
They had offered him a professional contract, but he has turned that down to join the Finch Farm outfit.
It was reported last week that he has told the Tangerines that he wants to leave.
The Daily Record now states that the Toffees are set to sign the youngster, having made an offer. If terms can't be agreed, it will be a case of compensation.
The Scottish Premiership outfit have previously rejected "significant" bids from Wolves and Norwich, which were six-figure offers.
What is Everton's plan for Kai Hutchison?
Everton already have a plan in place for Hutchison when he arrives on Merseyside.
The same report states that he is expected to sign a scholarship initially, with a three-year professional deal on the cards.
He clearly feels like he has the talent to make it to the Premier League and is backing himself for success in L3.
Why Hutchison signing could kickstart Friedkin Group revolution
The capture of a highly-rated youngster like Hutchison proves the Friedkin Group's commitment to the academy.
They have made it a clear goal to improve their recruitment at that level, and create a genuine pathway to the first-team.
The American businessman have made several changes to their sporting structure in recent years, bringing in Nick Cox as Techical Director and Dean Rastrick as Academy Director.
David Moyes' reluctance to implement young talent in the side may prove to be a sticking point, but if Hutchison is good enough, he will make it one day.
The Scotsman may not even be the manager by the time that he is ready to make the step up to the senior ranks, so that is an issue for the future.
Obviously, it was not enough to dissuade him from a move to the Blues, as he is set to join in the near future, after dismissing his current sides' attempts to keep him around.
Hopefully, it is the start of the youth evolution for the Toffees and they can start to bring in more talents like Hutchison shortly.