Everton are eyeing a move for Leeds United’s teenage sensation Mallik Wilks. Everton would be hoping to fend off interests from other suitors. Middlesbrough are also keen to bring the teenager given that Gary Monk is aware of the striker’s qualities having witnessed his game in his time at Leeds and also handing him his first senior cap.
The Englishman is currently on loan at Fourth Tier outfit Accrington Stanley that ends in January. Wilks’ contract runs down at the end of the season with Leeds having the option to prolong his stay by another year.
A graduate of the Leeds United academy, Gary Monk was the man to hand Wilks’ first senior appearance against Sutton United in an FA Cup clash, just a month after he signed his first professional contract. Wilks is a powerful and pacy customer to go with his aerial strength as he stands at 6ft. In the 12 substitute appearances, he has made for Accrington Stanley, the striker has found the net thrice. A notable goal of the three came as a winner in the 82nd minute away to Chesterfield. He has been quite the superstar coming off the bench and making a significant impact.
Everton needs to be precise in their approach for front-runners given their problems at goal this season. He adds to the much needed strength and aerial presence that Everton has lacked going forward. Everton’s signings are yet to hit the ground running. It was the youngsters that turned things around for The Toffees against Watford with the likes of Lookman and Calvert-Lewin.
The teenager probably does not slot right into the team. He lacks any significant experience in the top flight given that he has faced only third tier teams Blackpool and Wigan Athletic. But the Leeds United graduate seems to have the right ingredients to suite the style of the Premier League, pace and physicality.
It could be too early for the starlet to make an entry into the grand stage. David Unsworth might take his time to introduce the striker into the mainframe by giving him his time with the under-23’s and a senior appearance here and there once the FA Cup is underway.
Whether he is the one for Everton’s future or a remedy to sort out their frontline is a question to be answered. Ideally it would suit both the player and the club to be gradually given the nod to be a regular with the senior team. But until such time, the way they shape their wanted man will play a key role in his development and ultimately determining their interest in the teenage sensation.
