Midfielder Matos Signs Everton Pro Deal

Everton Academy midfielder Melvin Matos has signed his first professional contract with the Club until the end of June 2028.

Originally from Bedford, Matos joined the Toffees in 2024 and in his first campaign, made 15 league appearances for Everton Under-18s, netting his first goal in April 2025 during a 1-1 draw against Blackburn Rovers.

Last season, the centre midfielder played 22 league games for the Under-18s, captaining the side on five occasions. He also debuted for Everton Under-21s, coming off the bench against Brighton & Hove Albion in Premier League 2.

After signing his new deal, Matos told evertonfc.com: "It means a lot. It’s a step in the right direction to keep on pushing and it's a good moment – a dream come true. I'm really happy with it.

 “I developed a lot last season. We did very well in the league and we did well in the Youth Cup. I feel it was an achievement to become captain a few times.

“I’ve developed quite a bit from when I first came here to then become captain, so that was a really proud moment for me.”

Following a review led by Technical Director Nick Cox, supported by Academy Director Dean Rastrick and Academy Consultant Neil Dewsnip, the Under-21s are now led by the recently-appointed Dave Hughes in a new role as the Club's Head of Academy Player Development, while Matthew Taylor has been brought in as the Club’s new Head Coach for the Under-18s.

These additions have been quick to make a positive impact, believes Matos, who added: “The new faces have been really welcoming. They’ve got a plan and strategy, and I believe in that plan. They've been very, very vocal on what they want from us, and we just have to implement what they want.

“The mood is really, really high when you come into Finch Farm. It feels really happy. 

“With the new staff members, they always come in and make sure you're okay. I think with the coaches, they care. And that's one of the main things.

“It's a brilliant group to be a part of. My teammates are great lads. They’re a good laugh off the pitch, but on the pitch they're amazing.”