Jack Harrison Set to Join Everton Despite Aston Villa’s Late Bid
Everton are set to finalise a deal to sign Leeds United playmaker Jack Harrison tonight, despite a dramatic late bid from Aston Villa. The Toffees had agreed a deal with Leeds for the 26-year-old and he had a medical with Everton over the weekend. However, an 11th hour bid from Aston Villa threw Harrison’s move to Goodison Park into doubt.
The midfielder spoke with Unai Emery on the phone early on Sunday, and the Spaniard made it clear how much he wanted Harrison at Villa Park. However, the Athletic say Villa were unaware of the severity of Harrison’s current injury – which will see him miss the next six weeks – and have cooled their interest.
The midfielder is therefore set for Everton after they activated a clause in his contract to sign him on a season-long loan. The deal will include the option of signing Harrison on a permanent deal in 2024, though it’s not mandatory.
Harrison has been in impressive form for Leeds this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists in the Premier League. He has also been a key part of Marcelo Bielsa’s side, helping them to secure a top-half finish in their first season back in the top flight.
The winger has a relegation clause in his contract which means he can leave Leeds if they are relegated this season. However, with Leeds currently sitting in 11th place in the table, it looks unlikely that they will be relegated this season.
Harrison is set to become Everton’s third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Abdoulaye Doucoure from Watford and Allan from Napoli. He is expected to provide competition for Richarlison and Bernard on the wings, and could be a key player for Carlo Ancelotti’s side next season.
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