Everton set to beat Arsenal to 18yo winger

Everton are the favourites to secure Ollie Dewsbury after inviting the teenage winger on trial, despite interest from Arsenal and other clubs.

According to the Western Daily Press, Everton are expected to beat Arsenal to the signing of highly rated Bristol Rovers winger Ollie Dewsbury, with the 18-year-old currently on trial at Goodison Park ahead of a proposed move.

Arsenal had been among the clubs tracking the teenager, but Everton are now poised to secure his signature in a deal expected to earn Bristol Rovers a six-figure fee. He is currently valued at around £75,000 but it is not clear how long is left on his current contract.

Dewsbury is regarded as one of Rovers’ brightest young prospects. In November 2023, he became the club’s youngest-ever player to play in the FA Cup when he came off the bench against Whitby Town. He is also the second-youngest player to appear for the club’s first team.

The left winger has featured for 53 minutes across Bristol Rovers’ pre-season fixtures against Salisbury FC, Leicester City and Portsmouth, continuing his progress after gaining valuable senior experience away from the club.

He spent time on loan with Yate Town in 2024 before joining Taunton Town the following year. Most recently, he moved to Weston-super-Mare during the second half of the 2025-26 season.

He has made 22 appearances for Rovers without scoring or assisting after netting three in 21 with Weston-super-Mare

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