Everton have made Nathangelo Markelo the latest addition of their summer recruitment drive.
Markelo recently finished his second season within the under-19 setup at FC Volendam 019, where scouts from the Blues had monitored the defender.
His form on international duty with Holland’s under-18 side also attracted interest from Goodison Park, where he is now set to move later this week.
Markelo will link up with Everton’s U23 squad that was recently crowned Premier League 2 champions after agreeing a three-year contract.
He said: “It feels great to be an Everton player. It’s a nice opportunity for me and I love it here already.
“I heard something about two weeks ago after a tournament I played in and I was very happy. I decided immediately that I wanted to come to Everton.
“I’m looking forward to the season now. I have three years here and I hope to get plenty of playing time, develop as a player and then just keep making steps forward towards the first team.”
Volendam issued a statement confirming that the right-sided player will leave the Dutch second division team.
“FC Volendam and Everton FC have reached agreement on the transfer of Nathangelo Markelo,” read the statement.
“The Premier League club watched Nathangelo for the Dutch team and at some of FC Volendam 019’s home games and became convinced of his qualities.
“The right central defender / right-back would have been transferred to the first team next summer, but Everton had other plans.
“We wish Nathangelo a lot of success in England.”
Markelo becomes the second promising player to leave Volendam this summer, following striker Vicente Besuijen securing a move to AS Roma.