Manchester City have now emerged as ‘favourites’ to sign Everton youngster Emilio Lawrence, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, and there could even be an announcement made soon.

The Lowdown: Heading for the exit

The 16-year-old is a product of the Toffees academy system but hasn’t yet signed on as a scholar at Goodison Park, meaning that he is free to be snapped up by any interested potential suitors for a small compensation fee.

Despite having a successful youth career on Merseyside, the exit door seems to be the direction he’s heading in, namely to the Premier League champions after fending off competition for his signature.

The Latest: City favourites to land Lawrence

Taking to Twitter, Romano confirmed that City are now in pole position to sign Lawrence this window with the announcement of his next destination expected imminently. He wrote:

“Scottish top talent Emilio Lawrence (16) will leave Everton this summer. He has played for U23 team last season - Manchester City are now favourites to sign him.

“Lawrence attracted interest from big six, expected to announce new club soon.”

The Verdict: Exciting

City are renowned for having an outstanding academy set-up, and that will only be strengthened with the addition of Lawrence, who looks a fantastic long-term signing.

The Scot, who was once hailed for possessing a major ‘threat’ by Everton’s U18s manager Paul Tait, has been a revelation for the Toffees over the past two seasons, making ten goal contributions in just 21 outings in the U18 Premier League, via Transfermarkt.

This is the kind of form that is bound to catch the eye of Pep Guardiola and co as the Spaniard introduces more youth players into the first-team fold, and Lawrence could follow in the footsteps of the likes of Phil Foden to become a regular face at the Etihad in years to come.