Thierry Small ‘relaxed’ over contracts negotiations as Everton talks continue
Despite alarms that teenage sensation Thierry Small is set to reject Everton contract offers a new report claims that events are not as bad as first feared.
That’s according to the Liverpool Echo whose claims seem to fly in the face of all before them.
Small’s future has been the subject of much scrutiny in recent days with The Express carrying a report that the 16-year-old is ready to snub a three-year contract with the Blues and move on elsewhere, with Arsenal and Manchester United among his many suitors.
However the Echo’s Sam Carroll wrote: “Talks between Everton and Thierry Small over a first professional contract are progressing.
“The ECHO understands talks with Everton are continuing as planned and the 16-year-old is fully focused on the FA Youth Cup fourth round showdown against Manchester City on Saturday.”
Carroll goes on to say that Small and his camp are ‘relaxed’ about negotiations with the youngster considering first-choice left-back Lucas Digne to be the best in the Premier League, though there is a belief from those around the player that he can reach similar levels at Goodison Park.
Put the fears on ice
It seems like there is less to worry about here than first thought.
Initial reports had exalted the feeling that his mind was made up amid interest from elsewhere but if the Echo are to be believed then negotiations are still continuing at the pace at which they were intended.
Given that he is not eligible under FA rulings to sign his first professional contract until he turns 17 in August, there is no immediate rush to tie him down.
With his admiration of Digne revealed it seems like he is aware of the challenge ahead of him and is not demanding instant promotion to a starting spot in the Blues XI.
But it’s great to hear that he aspires to the standards set by the French international, and by the glimpses, we have seen of him, alongside the growing whispers of his ability, we wouldn’t bet against him becoming a player of that ilk.
In other Everton news, £75k/pw Blues outcast opens up on future
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.