January 01, (THEWILL) – Everton have completed the signing of Vitaliy Mykolenko, a 22-year-old Ukrainian left-back from Dynamo Kyiv.
The move has been reported for some time, with Lucas Digne, the French international, still missing from the squad for the first time since the derby defeat to Liverpool on December 1.
The Toffees have now confirmed the contract extension until 2026. The fee has not been revealed, although it is thought to be worth up to £17-18 million depending on add-ons.
Speaking with the Everton website, Mykolenko said: “Moving to Everton is a big and important step in my life. I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League. English football is where the game was born and I think that it will suit my game very well.
“I am 22 but I don’t feel like a youngster. I have experience of playing at European level and hope I will continue to improve as a player.
“I am excited about the opportunity of playing in front of our supporters at Everton. I have seen the last few games at Goodison Park and they were unbelievable.
“They are incredible fans to whom I feel great responsibility.”
The Ukrainian international, who will put on the number 19 shirt, was a member of Andriy Shevchenko’s Euro 2020 squad, can play as a wing-back or a centre-back.
Digne’s future is still up in the air, with Inter Milan and Chelsea both apparently keen.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
