Everton spies in pursuit of Sunderland sensation Oli Bainbridge, ‘sensible’ fee mooted
Everton scouts have watched Sunderland youngster Oli Bainbridge up close, according to Alan Nixon.
The journalist shared the news via his personal Patreon account on Sunday (17 March), adding that Bainbridge could soon debut for Sunderland.
Bainbridge has featured regularly for the Black Cats’ Under-21s side in Premier League 2, but he has yet to make his senior bow.
“Everton are keeping an eye on Sunderland’s promising teenage left-back Oli Bainbridge,” Nixon wrote.
“Goodison spies are checking on the powerful young defender, who is tipped to get into the Black Cats side before the end of the season.
“Bainbridge signed a deal with Sunderland last summer but could yet be snatched away for a sensible fee.”
Who is Sunderland defender Oli Bainbridge?
Everton already appear to have one eye on the summer transfer window, despite not yet knowing what division they will be in next season.
This is the type of signing the club will try to get over the line regardless of whether it is Premier League or Championship football, though.
In truth, not a great deal is known about Bainbridge given his lack of first-team exposure. However, the feedback has been largely positive.
Bainbridge is aged 18 and fits into the category of the type of player Everton are now looking more towards signings.
The youngster scored six goals for Sunderland in the Under 18s Premier League last season, but he has not registered so far this campaign.
That is to be expected given he is a defender, and there are comparisons to be made with Toffees favourite Jarrad Branthwaite, who has been linked with a Goodison Park exit.
It is never easy to get excited over a signing such as this one – fans want big name, big money arrivals after all – but it seems like some smart business from the club on the face of it.
In other Everton news, an “unclear” verdict has been shared with regards to the Toffees’ future amid the latest with 777 Partners.
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