Everton have completed the signing of Newcastle United academy prospect Lewis Gibson for a fee which could reportedly rise to £6m.
The England youth centre-back, who turned 17 last week, has agreed a three-year contract at Goodison Park.
Gibson is said to be regarded as one of the best young defenders in the country, and has attracted interest from a number of other Premier League clubs.
The teenager, who will link up with David Unsworth's Under-23 squad, told the official website: "Everton is a brilliant club and when the opportunity presented itself I wanted to be part of it.
"The reputation has long been there that Everton brings through young players. You only have to look at the likes of Tom Davies, Kieran Dowell, Jonjoe Kenny and several others who are battling for first-team places to know this.
"I'm a player who is willing to put my body on the line, the kind of defender who likes to tackle and is not afraid. I'm excited to be part of things here and I want to continue developing as a player. This is where I want to be."
Gibson only had a year remaining on his scholarship with Newcastle.
Giuseppe Labellarte
