Young Goalkeeper Signs New Everton Deal

Everton Under-21s goalkeeper Fraser Barnsley has signed a new contract with the Club, penning a two-year deal until the end of June 2027.

The Northern Ireland Under-21s international has become a regular with Paul Tait’s young Toffees since arriving on Merseyside in September 2023, when he signed from Oxford United.

Barnsley made nine Premier League 2 appearances for Everton Under-21s last season, while also earning minutes in four Premier League Cup contests.

Delighted to be extending his Everton contract, the shot-stopper says he’s improved significantly since joining the Club.

“I’m over the moon,” Barnsley told evertonfc.com, discussing his new deal. “It's a massive moment for me and my family. It's been a fantastic first two years since I came through the door and I've loved every moment of it.

“The programme really helps you develop everything and highlights areas that may need more work than others.

“I feel like I've developed massively in all aspects under the coaching staff and with the players – and I'm looking forward to what’s to come.”

A key part of a strong goalkeepers’ union at Finch Farm, Barnsley says it’s the perfect place to be honing his shot-stopping skills.

“You’re learning off the best in England and one of the best in the world in Jordan (Pickford),” he continued. “Watching him play and watching him train is an education in itself.

“And then obviously being around the lads this season with Mark (Travers) and Harry (Tyrer), I’m learning off them and the experiences they’ve had.

“And the same last year with Asmir (Begovic) and Joao (Virginia). Asmir has got an abundance of experience, so leaning on him and talking to him was quality.”

Barnsley believes the positivity surrounding the Club following the Men’s Senior Team’s strong finish to last season – and ahead of the move to Hill Dickinson Stadium – is felt among the young players developing within the Blues’ Academy.

He added: “I think no matter where you are in the Club, you always feel that positive energy when the first team is doing well. And that just flows down.

“So, it's a really exciting time to be an Everton player. And hopefully the next few years that I'm here is going to be really exciting for the things to come.”