Scouts and analysts break down the Scottish prodigy’s dual-footed finishing and physical dominance as Everton set to beat Premier League rivals for the prolific teenage striker.
Everton are reportedly set to sign Dundee United youngster Kai Hutchinson, and I've now spoken to various people to gain some insight on the talented forward.
Reports emerged last week that Everton are now set to sign Hutchinson after he turned down a professional contract with Dundee United. The 16-year-old striker had interest from clubs such as Wolves and Norwich City, but he is now expected to sign a scholarship deal with the Toffees.
Dundee United were desperate to tie him down to a new contract, but they have been powerless to stop Everton from securing his signature.
With there being limited information about Hutchinson out there, I decided to speak to various people in the industry who have watched him closely, including professional scouts and analysts.
Insight on Kai Hutchinson
As mentioned, I thought it would be a smart idea to try and get some insight on Everton's potential new addition. It's something I want to try to do on this on this platform, bringing various different opinions from people who know what they're talking about.
When Everton are linked with a player or confirm a signing, I often like to try to bring as much insight as I can myself. With Hutchinson, he's not a player I have ever come across during my time working in football, but there are others who have.
Firstly, I spoke to TheSecretScout, someone who has been working in football for many years now and is very popular on social media.
TheSecretScout said:
"Kai Hutchinson is a promising centre-forward. He has the attributes to become a complete striker. When watching v Spain U16, he demonstrated his ability to make dangerous runs in behind as well as his link-up play when he drops to receive the ball.
He is capable of shooting off either foot. After scouting him for a year, I still can’t work out which is his preferred foot.
A smart signing for Everton, at a time where there’s a lack of no 9s coming through."
There is also a clip above which shows what Hutchinson is capable of. He appears to be a physical specimen for his age, which could stand him in good stead if he ever becomes a Premier League-level player.
I also spoke to an analyst from a top professional club in the game, who chose to stay anonymous. He said:
"An athletic, modern-day centre forward, who possesses strong physical attributes and a clear desire to score goals. He is a willing runner and works tirelessly out of possession, consistently contributing to the team's defensive efforts. He plays on the edge, constantly a handful for opposing defenders and fights for every second ball."
The third and final person I spoke to was Ollie Keable, a co-founder at Touchline Talent.
"One of Scotland's brightest attacking prospects. Intelligent movement on and off the ball, sharp acceleration and natural finishing make him a constant goal threat. Strong mentality and rapid progression, trained with the first team as well.
He fits that mould that David Moyes likes. Strong and powerful for his age. Will be a good Braiden Graham replacement in the U18s. Almost reminds me of why we wanted Francis Okoronkwo at the same age, but I feel Kai has more about him to succeed at a higher level."
Now, this article wasn't made in order to big up a young player before he's even signed. It was simply to give some insight into the profile of a player that many wouldn't have watched before.
It's something I'll be hoping to repeat throughout the summer transfer window, speaking to various different people about potential new signings. It just so happens that the first potential signing is a young 16-year-old talent, but either way, hopefully he has what it takes to succeed at Everton.
