Everton signing this 17-year-old rising Rangers starlet could be a worthy investment if it clicks

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Why Everton should bring young talent Cole McKinnon to the side

According to Scottish Sun, Premier League side Everton are planning to launch a bid for Rangers teenager Cole McKinnon.

Despite just being 17, the young midfielder’s impressive performances saw him get promoted to Rangers reserve side recently. A regular in Rangers’ under-18 squad, McKinnon also made an appearance for their reserve side under Graeme Murty in their Challenge Cup tie against Berwick Rangers.

Cole McKinnon has impressed with Rangers reserve side this season.
Cole McKinnon has impressed with the Rangers reserve side this season. (Getty Images)

This is a testament to McKinnon’s talent, who had also played a key role in the Rangers under-17 side that won the prestigious ALKASS Cup back in 2019.

Having proved his potential at such a young age, it is not a big surprise that Everton have now shown an interest in McKinnon. The midfielder is also a part of Scotland’s under-16 squad and has so far featured four times for them.

McKinnon, a good future signing for Everton

Carlo Ancelotti’s Everton have not had the best of campaigns this season as they sit a lowly 11th in the league rankings. Lack of creativity in the midfield and a weak defence have been the major reasons for the side’s dismal show this season.

Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti reacts on the touchline (Getty Images)
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti reacts on the touchline. (Getty Images)

Despite having as many as eight midfielders within the side, Everton and Ancelotti have failed to stick to a set of midfielders, who could feature for the first eleven. Ancelotti has mostly preferred to go with Andre Gomes, Tom Davies and veteran Gylfi Sigurdsson in the middle since his arrival back in December last year.

Though it has stabilised their performances, there are still areas for improvement and Ancelotti is aware of that. Moreover, Sigurdsson will turn 31 this September and has looked a shadow of his former self throughout this season.

Apart from Sigurdsson, Everton also have an ageing midfielder in Fabian Delph. The 30-year-old has also been far from impressive, managing just 16 league appearances, showing signs that he is clearly not in his prime anymore.

Gylfi Sigurdsson will turn 31 this coming September.
Gylfi Sigurdsson will turn 31 this coming September. (Getty Images)

That said, it will be really beneficial for Everton to do with some young and rising talent like McKinnon. Though he won’t be a guaranteed starter for the side, he could prove to be an excellent future signing for the club.

McKinnon also offers them a cheaper and long-term alternative compared to other stars on who Everton may otherwise need to splash heavy cash.

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Verdict

Despite having enough depth in their midfield, Everton have suffered a dip in form this season, and McKinnon’s arrival will only add more depth to their squad. His inclusion will offer Ancelotti an extra option next season. Moreover, he is still in his teens and can develop into an excellent midfielder if he fulfils his potential.