Everton are reportedly closing in on an agreement to sign Waterford striker Tommy Lonergan after being impressed by the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international’s performances this season.
The Toffees have been assessing their attacking options ahead of the upcoming transfer window, with the 22-year-old emerging as a promising addition following his impressive displays for club and country. Everton were among the clubs represented when Lonergan scored twice in Ireland’s 3-1 victory over England Under-21s, according to OneFootball.
His performances have strengthened the case for a move to the Premier League, with the young forward demonstrating his ability to deliver goals consistently despite Waterford’s struggles towards the bottom of the League of Ireland Premier Division table.
Lonergan has scored 14 league goals this season, establishing himself as one of Waterford’s most influential players and attracting attention from clubs looking to strengthen their attacking departments.
Irish football expert Ronan Calvert has already backed the striker to make a positive impact at Everton, describing him as a potentially valuable addition.
“Tommy Lonergan would be a very smart signing for Everton,” Calvert told Betway.
“He was always athletic, but Lonergan is now strikingly physical, and he is using his frame to outmuscle defenders and get driven shots away or direct sweet headers past helpless keepers on a pretty regular basis.”
The forward previously spent time with St Patrick’s Athletic and Fleetwood Town before finding greater consistency at Waterford. Although those spells presented challenges, Calvert believes they have helped shape Lonergan into a more complete striker.
“He’s had to work really hard to get to this point, with some disappointments at St Patrick’s Athletic and Fleetwood Town along the way. But the last few weeks have shown us a player who has fully arrived and is ready for the next level.”
Lonergan’s recent achievements have extended beyond league football. He also scored against Bohemians as Waterford secured a place in their first FAI Cup final since 2004, further highlighting his growing influence.
Everton have explored several attacking possibilities, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Christian Kofane and Rennes forward Esteban Lepaul also linked with a potential move.
However, securing Lonergan would offer Everton an opportunity to invest in a developing goalscorer whose physical strength, improving finishing and recent form suggest he could have considerable potential at a higher level.