Latest Everton exit proves to be cautionary tale for Arthur Barratt as he closes in on move
Arthur Barratt has already been provided with the blueprint of what not to do at Everton.
The Blues are set to continue their academy overhaul by adding the 16-year-old to their ranks.
They have already added Kai Hutchison from Dundee United, and look set to bring another talent through the Finch Farm doors.
Fabrizio Romano revealed on Tuesday that Everton have agreed a fee for the Chelsea youngster and they are closing in on a move.
The Blues released their retained list on 10 June, and one particular departure was more intriguing than most.
It gives Barratt a cautionary tale to take on board as he prepares for life on Merseyside.
Francis Okoronkwo's Everton exit sends a message to Arthur Barratt
Francis Okoronkwo is one of several Blues youngsters to leave Finch Farm on Tuesday, with the expiry of their contracts.
The 21-year-old was signed from Sunderland for £1million when he was just 16, and there were high hopes for his future.
However, after loans to Salford City, Lincoln City and Doncaster Rovers, he has not done enough to earn a contract extension.
He will now have to assess his options and find a new home, after the latest setback in his career.
Barratt will hope that he does not suffer the same fate as Okoronkwo.
Why did Okoronkwo not succeed at Everton?
Okoronkwo was a victim of the lack of faith in the academy that has plagued Everton for years.
Jarrad Branthwaite and Harrison Armstrong are the only names to emerge as genuine first-team options in the last few seasons.
Okoronkwo had nine goals and three assists in 16 matches for the Under-18s, but he failed to replicate that form in the Under-21s.
He could never manage more than four goals in his loan spells in the Football League, so it makes sense that he never received an opportunity with the Toffees' senior side.
Injuries also played their part, he struggled with a hamstring injury last season, which ultimately ended his season in January.
Basically, Barratt needs to return with good numbers when he placed out on loan and avoid injuries that can derail his momentum, and he may be able to avoid the same fate as Okoronkwo.