Sources: Everton in initial talks with 17-year-old midfielder over new contract after interest

Demi Akarakiri is in talks with Everton over a new contract, Goodison News has learned.

The 17-year-old has progressed through the system at Finch Farm with five goals and three assists across 53 matches in the Blues’ youth ranks.

Now, Everton have acted to secure Akarakiri‘s long-term future, after they poached him from Arsenal’s youth system in April 2024.

One source has told Goodison News that no agreement has been reached yet between the two parties, but initial contact has been made.

• Read More: Recap the hilarious way in which Akarakiri announced his Everton move

How long does Akarakiri have on his current Everton deal

We understand that Akarakiri had interest in his services in the winter transfer window, but ultimately remained with the Hill Dickinson Stadium side.

His current deal, which is a two-year scholarship, is due to expire in June, but it looks as though the Merseysiders are trying to keep him.

It would be a statement if the L4 outfit could convince the English-Nigerian midfielder to stay put for the foreseeable future, as he is a tremendous talent.

• Read More: When can Everton fans expect Braiden Graham breakthrough after Finch Farm exploits?

Who is Everton prospect Akarakiri?

Akarakiri is a midfielder who is originally from London, and he joined the Blues after 10 years with the Gunners.

His standout attribute is his passing ability, which was once described as “impressive” by David Ornstein, one of the biggest journalists in football media.

He seems to have added goalscoring to his game in recent weeks, with two in his last two for the Under-21’s.

Akarakiri notched in a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the Under-18s Premier League on 7 February, and then scored in the Premier League 2 loss to Sunderland, then in Paul Tait’s side’s 2-2 draw against Southampton on 27 February.

His development is likely best served by either spending more time with the youth teams or going out on loan to the Football League to hone his talents in the senior game, as the likes of Harrison Armstrong and Isaac Heath have done.

However, they must get him to sign a new deal first, before any plans about his long-term growth can be drawn up.

David Moyes and Co must convince him that there is a pathway to the first team, otherwise, they could lose one of their best academy prospects.

For more on Everton’s contract situations, check out Football Insider for the latest news and analysis.

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