Everton are set to sign Charlton u18 defender Rueben Gokah, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The defender, who is reportedly an England u15 and u16 international, turned 16 in February and was part of the Charlton u16 side that won the Premier League Professional Development League Cup last year.
According to his representation, Roc Nation: “Reuben is a commanding presence on the field, known for his calm and composed ball control. Defensively, he excels at dominating attackers with his strength and breaking down attacks through his excellent positioning.”
Nixon says Everton have secured a deal for the defender, who will only be able to sign a pro contract when he turns 17 next year.
The move would make sense for Everton, who have already reportedly signed Hearts youth defender John Dodds. The club is short at centre half throughout its youth sides and has also been linked with Rotherham United defender Harrison Duncan, who scored an incredible 17 goals from defence this season for the u21 side.
If Everton do sign highly-rated Gokah he would be part of a new generation of Everton defenders. The club will welcome back Eli Campbell from a loan at Ross County and he will join relative veterans Reece Welch and Tyler Onyango in the u21 squad next year.
However, the club does lack depth with just Will Tamen, signed from Burton Albion last summer, and impressive 18 year old Welsh youth international Aled Thomas, as options at u21 level.
Gokah and Dodds would join the Everton u18 squad if their signings are confirmed.