Everton have a number of hot prospects when it comes to young players coming through their academy, and despite the relegation challenge that the club are currently battling in the senior team, there is a bright future for one particular young player that has been impressing.

What's the word?

Replying to a Toffees fan in a Q&A for The Liverpool Echo, journalist Adam Jones has given an update on contract negotiations at the club with youngster Lewis Warrington.

Jones confirmed;

“We believe that talks are ongoing with Lewis and his representatives over a potential new deal – which would make perfect sense after seeing the progression he’s made this season! Frank Lampard could easily be a big fan in the future, we’ll have to wait and see.”

Cahill 2.0

The Birkenhead-born midfielder has been impressing this season after being given his chance to shine at Tranmere Rovers and has been crucial in their pursuit for a play-off position in League Two, with the side currently just one point shy of the top seven with four games left to play.

Warrington, who was dubbed "highly rated" by Micky Mellon, has been effective in his midfield role at his loan club scoring one goal and contributing one assist, as well as making 0.7 key passes, 1.3 tackles and 1.3 clearances per game according to SofaScore, proving he can be effective in both defensive and offensive play.

The 19 year old claimed that Everton legend Tim Cahill was amongst his midfield heroes growing up in a club interview;

"When I was growing up, it was the 2010 Everton team – the likes of Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Bainesy and Seamus."

With Frank Lampard's track record of giving chances to and developing young players like Reece James and Mason Mount, there is no reason why Warrington couldn't benefit from being taken under the former Chelsea bosses wing and become the second coming of his hero Tim Cahill, if he commits his future with the club.

Everton reportedly need to sell up to 10 players in the summer to recoup for financial losses, so the youngsters chances to make his mark on the first team at Goodison Park could be increased next season with the potential to break through just like his fellow boyhood Evertonian Anthony Gordon.

In other news: Everton join the chase for "outstanding" £70k-p/w star, he's a huge Keane upgrade