Vitaliy Mykolenko has signed for Everton FC, with the club announcing the deal on their official website.
The 22-year-old left-back joins from Dynamo Kiev, having already made three assists in his 20 appearances for the Ukrainian side this season.
New Signing Vitaliy Mykolenko Bolsters Everton Defence
Vitaliy Mykolenko Is Everton’s First Signing of the Transfer Window
Everton have not wasted any time in this January transfer window, announcing the signing of Mykolenko this morning.
The fee is undisclosed but is rumoured to be around £17 million.
Able to play as a wing-back, or even as a central defender, Mykolenko is a young talent who was already impressing at Dynamo Kiev.
He started his career at Dynamo, where he has gone on to win a place in the first team. He became a regular in the first-team, featuring also in the Europa League and most recently in the Champions League.
His move away to Everton is his first professional move, a big leap from his home country and into the Premier League. So this transfer is a bit of a calculated risk.
Nevertheless, Mykolenko brings enough experience. The defender has made 21 caps for Ukraine since his debut in November 2018.
But he also brings with him the experience of winning trophies with Dynamo Kiev, including one league title and two cups. This is something that Everton desperately lack – their last major trophy being the FA Cup in 1995.
Mykolenko Promises to Settle Quickly and Show His Desire to Win
In a short interview with the club, Mykolenko revealed his desire to play on the front foot and to attack when he can.
He said: “Modern football demands that full-backs are able to attack as well as defend. I think I am a versatile defender who can get up and down the pitch.
“But I believe desire and commitment are the most important attributes and I will aim to bring those qualities.”
The Ukranian defender is hopeful to settle in quickly and get used to a brand new league in a brand new country.
Mykolenko said: “I feel great right now and it is very important for me to communicate with the team, the management and the fans.
“For that, I need to learn the language and understand the culture of this city, this country and this club. I will do my very best.
He added: “I believe here at Everton, with the Club’s traditions and ambitions, I will grow as a person and as a player.”
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