Liverpool, England (My Sportsbook) - Everton has been told it must pay at least $990,000 to Leeds United for teenage defender Luke Garbutt. The 16-year-old joined the Toffees from the League One club in July, but his departure had annoyed their chairman Ken Bates. Bates claimed the Premier League club had "nicked" the England youth international despite claims of innocence from the Merseysides. Following a tribunal hearing, Everton have been ordered to pay an initial $990,000 rising to $1.2 million depending on appearances. Leeds will also receive 20 percent of any profit should Garbutt be sold on in the future. "This is very much a transfer for the future for Everton. It's not an uncommon move to make - many Premier League clubs invest in young talent with a view to nurturing and developing them," Everton's academy manager Ray Hall told the club's official website. "We're all delighted to have Luke at the club. He is an excellent prospect and he will be allowed to mature and learn his trade with our academy staff and players. "I know the manager will be keeping an eye on his progress - as he does with all our boys - and if he looks ready to make the next step up then he may get his chance. "We have shown as a club on a regular basis that we are prepared to give youngsters an opportunity at Everton." (Courtesy of sportbox.tv) |
