Everton Hand New Academy Contracts to Nigeria-Eligible Duo Madueke and Okorie

Posted : 16 July 2026

Everton have confirmed that Nigeria-eligible youngsters Divine Madueke and Levi Okorie have signed academy scholarship agreements ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The Premier League club announced its new intake of first-year scholars on its official website, with both players earning places in the academy programme as they continue their development toward senior football.

A scholarship is a major step in the pathway to professional football in England. Upon turning 17, academy players become eligible to sign their first professional contracts as they progress through the club's youth system.

Defender Divine Madueke is already a familiar figure within Everton's academy setup. The youngster joined the Toffees from Tottenham Hotspur in August 2025 and featured four times for Everton's Under-18 side during the 2025/26 campaign.

Madueke made his Under-18 debut in December and impressed by playing the full 90 minutes in Everton's 3-1 comeback victory over Manchester United away from home. His performances have earned him another important milestone in his development.

Levi Okorie has also been rewarded after making steady progress within the academy. The midfielder, who is regarded as a composed and confident player, made three substitute appearances in the U18 Premier League last season.

Okorie has also gained valuable international experience at youth level. He represented the Republic of Ireland Under-16 team in April, featuring in matches against the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark during an international tournament.

Although Okorie has represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria under FIFA nationality regulations if he has not been cap-tied in official senior competition. Madueke is also eligible to represent Nigeria, making both players potential future prospects for the country's national teams.

Everton's latest scholarship intake highlights the club's commitment to developing young talent, while the progress of Madueke and Okorie will be closely monitored by supporters and national team scouts alike.

The two teenagers will now continue their development with Everton's academy as they work towards earning professional contracts and eventually breaking into the club's senior squad.

Everton Hand New Academy Contracts to Nigeria-Eligible Duo Madueke and Okorie

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