Everton are reportedly closing in on the signing of highly-rated Crusaders youngster Jack Patterson, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The lowdown: An Irish connection
The Blues have developed somewhat of a penchant for signing talented Irish youngsters as Patterson prepares to follow Ballymena United goalkeeper Dylan Graham in making the switch to Goodison Park.
Having made a senior professional debut aged just 15, the now 16-year-old has made four appearances for the NIFL Premiership outfit, amassing 155 minutes in the process.
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Despite his tender years, Patterson could already be preparing to make a huge transfer move...
The latest: Deal 'expected'
As per a source for the Liverpool Echo, Everton are now 'expected' to sign the three-cap Northern Ireland youth international.
It's claimed that the deal was put in place with Rafa Benitez at the helm while there was no director of football at the club.
The report states that defensive midfielder Patterson, who was described as a 'baller' by teammate Johnny Black, is 'set to make the move' to Merseyside as the Toffees 'intensify their academy scouting efforts' moving forwards.
The verdict: Smart business
Whilst many of the Blues faithful will be crying out for first-team reinforcements to bolster Frank Lampard's squad, a need to sign talented youngsters with one eye on the future cannot be forgone.
Recently Everton have seen the fruits of their academy labours come to the fore as Anthony Gordon, Jarrad Branthwaite and Lewis Dobbin have all made some impact for the senior side.
If the Blues are going to compete in the upper reaches of the Premier League in years to come, developing from within will be crucial, and hopefully, Patterson is one who will be starring in Blue down the line.
In other news, find out who has now been talked about as a potential Frank Lampard replacement here!