Everton Sign Teenage Defender

Everton Under-21s have signed 18-year-old defender William Tamen on a three-year deal until the end of June 2027.

The promising centre-back joins from Burton Albion, having made his League One debut with the Brewers last season, as well as featuring in two EFL Trophy games – one of which being his professional debut against Paul Tait’s Everton Under-21s.

Tamen, who only turned 18 in May, is keen to impress at Finch Farm. After signing his contract with the Club, he told evertontv: “I’m delighted. It’s a dream come true for me to be coming to a Premier League club.

“My ambition to play Premier League football and it’s something I’ve dreamed of doing since I was young. The way the younger centre-backs are coming through, as well as the senior lads – it’s a good place to be for my development.

“I want to play with the Under-21s and play as many games as I can to gain that experience in Premier League 2, and then hopefully, get on to train with the Senior Team and make some appearances.”

Tamen joins Tait’s squad having already featured in men’s football while with his previous club, and while looking ahead to the young Toffees’ upcoming campaign in Premier League 2, he reflected on his learnings from last season, adding: “It was amazing – a real eye opener.

“I started off by making my professional debut against Everton (in September 2023) and went on to make two more appearances.

“I made my league debut and first start in the same game, which was unreal. Now, I’m happy to be here.

“I think [playing in Premier League 2], it’ll be really big. Coming from Burton in League One, it’s a different kind of game. But obviously, Premier League 2 is a bit more technical, and I’m really excited to test myself against some really good players.”

On the latest addition to the Under-21s squad, Everton Director of Football, Kevin Thelwell, said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Will to the Club. He’s already shown – through valuable minutes in the EFL – that he’s a really talented young defender.

“We’re looking forward to working with Will at Finch Farm to help him fulfil his potential and continue his impressive journey so far.”