Gibson set to sign new Everton deal before heading out on loan

Everton academy defender Lewis Gibson is expected to sign a new contract this week before pursuing a loan deal before Friday’s transfer deadline, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The 19-year-old, who joined from Newcastle in July 2017, is out of contract in the summer and wanted assurances about his development pathway before committing to fresh terms.

Gibson has been in talks with director of football Marcel Brands and it seems he is happy with the club’s plans for his future.

Once signing a new deal, Gibson will then focus on securing a loan move for the rest of the campaign.

Teams from the Championship, League One and abroad have shown an interest in the youngster, with a move to the Championship most likely.

Then, depending on how he progresses, Gibson will either join-up with Carlo Ancelotti’s first-team squad ahead of next season or seek a season-long loan somewhere elseto further his development.

The news is obviously a boost to Everton given Gibson is one of the U23s’ most promising talents. The deal to lure him from Newcastle is also worth up to £6 million, so to have lost him on a free transfer would have been yet another blow to Everton’s already wobbly finances.

The likes of Leon Osman, Seamus Coleman and Mason Holgate have all benefited from loan spells in the past, returning to the club a more rounded player.

Let’s hope the same applies here.