News

Young Everton defender Reece Welch has agreed a new four-year contract with the Toffees until the end of June 2026.

The 19-year-old centre-back who joined the Club’s Academy at the age of seven, recently made his full First-Team debut in August’s 1-0 Carabao Cup victory at Fleetwood Town. Welch, who Frank Lampard gave his Everton debut to when he came off the bench in the FA Cup win over Boreham Wood at Goodison Park in March, has been a regular in Lampard’s matchday squads and training sessions this season.

Welch has also become a regular member of the England Under-20 squad spoke to Everton TV after penning his deal and spoke of his future goals, he said :

“It’s amazing to sign this new contract. I’ve been at this club since I was seven years old and seen so many players come through the Academy into the First Team and I’ve always wanted to be one of those. Now I’ve been in and around there, it inspires me to take the next step.

“I want to kick on in the First Team, look to make a few more appearances and show what I’m about. I want to wear this blue shirt in the Premier League and, long-term, help Everton to success.

“Everton fans want hard work, dedication and passion for the Club and if I can give that, hopefully I’ll be able to do a good job for Everton.”

Welch spoke highly of Blues boss Frank Lampard but also singled out Ashley Cole and also mentioned Conor Coady and James Tarkowski for helping with his development.

“Frank Lampard has done it all. To learn from someone like him and Ashley Cole is so helpful. They’ve won so many trophies, represented England and now they are here teaching me everything. All I can do is listen to them and put it into my work.

“With James Tarkowski and Conor Coady coming in, they’ve really helped me, too, and been mentors. I just try to take everything on board from them.”

To watch the full interview with Reece visit evertonfc.com