Everton complete out of window transfer to sign Fraser Barnsley on two-year contract
Everton have completed the signing of Oxford United goalkeeper Fraser Barnsley on a two-year deal, the club confirmed in an official statement.
The Toffees took to their website to announce on Tuesday (5 September) that the 18-year-old will leave Oxford to join the under-21s at Goodison Park.
He played a key role in guiding his side to the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals last season.
Good move
Everton need to focus on their youth recruitment as well and it's good to see them signing a quality young goalkeeper.
At 18, he's already shown plenty of promise and if after two or three years, he keeps improving at the level he has been there's a good chance for him to get a senior call-up.
This season, it seems like the Toffees will retain his services rather than loaning him out but they could send him next summer to gain senior minutes.
He's still a teenager so under-21s football would suit him and if he impresses in the league then they may consider the next step in his development.
In his interview, Barnsley says that his shot stopping is his best attribute and it's essential that he's taught at that age about the importance to play out from the back as well.
Jordan Pickford is a great example of a keeper who's good with his feet and he can perhaps give him a few words of encouragement.