According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have finally completed the signing of Emilio Lawrence from Everton.
Manchester City pinch Everton wonderkid
Well, the reliable Italian journalist actually claimed back in July that the Citizens were close to signing the 17-year-old from the Toffees.
However – for reasons currently unknown – there was a delay over the deal.
Now, Manchester City have finally secured the Scottish prodigy’s signature, after what Romano states were “long negotiations” between those at the Etihad Stadium and Everton.
The Italian adds that it is a “big statement” from Pep Guardiola to sign yet another rising talent – you can see his tweet in full below.
Lawrence enjoyed an impressive 2021/22 campaign for Everton in what was his final season on Merseyside, scoring six goals while also providing three assists in 18 Premier League 2 appearances.
Specifically, the teenager’s ability to shine in a number of positions stands out.
Lawrence played on both the right and left flanks last season, while also lining up in the centre of the attack.
Despite that frequent rotation, the Manchester City supporter still managed to achieve a healthy goal return, which speaks volumes about his tactical maturity – Guardiola will surely love that aspect of his game.
Everton should hope Manchester City use Emilio Lawrence
In our view, Manchester City’s policy of hoovering up the best youngsters in England is pointless if Guardiola never uses any of them in the first-team.
The Citizens already boasted some fine talents in Romeo Lavia, Samuel Edozie and Gavin Bazunu, only to sell them all to Southampton, so Everton fans upset about this news should be patient – they’ll probably end up taking Lawrence back in a few years.
Of course, Manchester City presumably made a nice bit of profit from selling the aforementioned youngsters to Southampton, but it’s hardly as if the Citizens need to raise funds doing that.
Hopefully, Lawrence continues his impressive development in Manchester, and can fulfil his vast potential at the Etihad Stadium.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
