Netherlands Under-18 international Nathangelo Markelo has revealed that he is targeting a spot in the Everton first team after joining the Toffees on Monday afternoon.

The 18-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Premier League outfit, who had agreed a fee with Dutch second division outfit FC Volendam.

Markelo, who can play in a number of defensive positions, will initially represent Everton's Under-23 team under David Unsworth next season, but the Dutchman has said that he is looking forward to 'making steps towards the first team'.

Markelo told Everton's official website:

“It feels great to be an Everton player. It’s a nice opportunity for me and I love it here already.

“I heard something about two weeks ago after a tournament I played in and I was very happy. I decided immediately that I wanted to come to Everton.

“I’m looking forward to the season now. I have three years here and I hope to get plenty of playing time, develop as a player and then just keep making steps forward towards the first team.”

Markelo has become Everton's third summer signing after Jordan Pickford and Davy Klaassen, who have moved to Goodison Park from Sunderland and Ajax respectively since the end of the 2016-17 campaign.

Malaga forward Sandro Ramirez, meanwhile, has reportedly passed a medical with the Toffees ahead of his £5m move, although the 21-year-old is currently with the Spain Under-21 squad at the Under-21 European Championships in Poland.

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