Aston Villa provoke Everton with interest in Premier League wonderkid

Everton are reportedly set to have a tough time in convincing goalkeeper Douglass Lukjanciks to stay at the club this summer amid interest from Premier League rivals.

The 16-year-old, who joined as a scholar, has made six appearances for Everton Under-18s since the start of the 2022/23 season, enjoying a gradual breakthrough in the academy. With dual citizenship due to his Latvian heritage, the England Under-17 international has impressed as one of the Three Lions’ most exciting young shotstoppers.

Football Transfers reports Aston Villa and Manchester City are interested in signing Lukjanciks this summer in a potential blow to Everton. It’s claimed a transfer should be fairly straightforward as UEFA rules for signing minors recognise his Latvian passport, making it an easier process than if he was fully English.

The Toffees are said to value Lukjanciks greatly, seeing the teenager as a future number-one goalkeeper. But Villa and City - both in the UEFA Champions League with their senior teams - could offer an improved platform to further progress his career. A transfer away is definitely to consider if either interested party makes a swoop.

Aston Villa conduct medical for imminent signing

In other transfer news, Villa have completed the signing of Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, barring an official announcement. The Netherlands international left-back has passed his medical and will sign a six-year contract at Villa Park, as per transfer news journalist Fabrizio Romano.

It’s a significant deal for the Villans, looking to strengthen ahead of their upcoming campaign in Europe’s most elite competition. Maatsen, who reached the Champions League final on loan at Borussia Dortmund last season, will be keen to continue his upward trajectory in line with Villa’s.