Everton transfer news: Jack Harrison permanent option update emerges on Leeds United exit, Willy Gnonto still wanted
Jack Harrison’s move to Everton could become permanent as “terms have been agreed” on a loan-to-buy deal, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The local newspaper reported on their website Sunday afternoon (13 August) that the 26-year-old winger was undergoing a Toffees medical and that the club were “closing in” on the Leeds United man, while still want teammate Willy Gnonto.
A release clause in his contract allows him to leave Elland Road on loan, but it appears a permanent option has been included in that agreement so he could remain at Goodison Park for the long term, despite only signing a new Whites contract in April, with The Telegraph now reporting the deal is done..
Everton are still interested in signing fellow Leeds United winger Gnonto, who has now missed the past two matches as he tries to get a move away, with the Whites insisting he won’t be going anywhere in a Friday statement on the “disciplinary” matter.
Boost
The 1-0 defeat to Fulham in the season opener demonstrated once again how much this side needs extra potency in attack and adding Harrison to the ranks should aid with that.
He is currently out injured so the benefit will be delayed but, while late in the day, this could be a real help for Sean Dyche this season.
While cash might not be plentiful this summer the hope will be that the Englishman arrives on a temporary basis to prove his worth in helping the Toffees improve on two seasons of struggle, and then becomes more affordable down the line.
Everton have had their eye on attacking options at Elland Road all summer as they look to take advantage of narrowly winning the relegation battle.
Gnonto has been the headline attraction in that sense but it looks like Harrison is going to be the first of what could be multiple arrivals through the doors at Goodison Park.
Leeds are within their rights to cling onto the Italian teenager, and are surely minded to do so all the more given the ease with which the likes of Harrison are departing.
But how the youngster is reintegrated into the squad is a question that doesn’t currently have an obvious answer, so with the Toffees still on his trail it is possible he still joins his older teammate in making the same trip to Goodison.
