Lincoln City are reportedly set to strengthen their attacking options with the loan signing of Everton forward Francis Okoronkwo.
The 20-year-old striker has been linked with a move to the LNER Stadium after supporters claimed to have spotted him at Saturday’s victory over Plymouth Argyle.
Okoronkwo, who cost Everton £1 million when he joined from Sunderland as a teenager, has been a key figure at academy level. He contributed 22 goals and assists across 50 matches for the Toffees’ youth sides between 2022 and 2024. Despite not yet making a senior appearance for David Moyes’s first team, he spent last season in League Two with Salford City, where he registered four goals in 12 starts.
Everton Prospect on the Move
The forward underlined his quality as recently as last week, creating both goals for Everton Under-21s in a 2-1 National League Cup win over Solihull Moors. Standing at over six feet tall, his physical profile has drawn attention, with Lincoln keen to maintain the aerial dominance that has become a feature of their attack under Michael Skubala.
Okoronkwo has previously spoken about his confidence in front of goal, reflecting on his early scoring form at Salford.
“As long as I’m in those positions, nine times out of 10 I am going to back myself to score. Hopefully that will continue. My game is more in behind and over the top and as long as I get that ball and am front-facing on goal I’m going to at least work the keeper.”
With Jack Moylan ruled out through injury, Lincoln’s recruitment team appear to have moved quickly to secure another versatile attacking option. Okoronkwo is capable of playing across the three supporting roles behind James Collins, while also offering cover in the central striker position.
Boosting Lincoln’s Depth
Supporters have expressed excitement at his potential, with clips circulating online showing him linking effectively with fellow forward Braiden Graham. That creative side could prove vital for Collins, who thrives on service into the box.
Understand Everton striker Francis Okoronkwo is set to join Lincoln on a season-long loan. Okoronkwo was in attendance for Lincoln’s win over Plymouth on Saturday. #EFC #Imps pic.twitter.com/vxHPHJez9O
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) August 16, 2025
While Premier League loanees are sometimes questioned over their readiness for senior football, Okoronkwo’s year at Salford should stand him in good stead. His blend of height, pace and creativity could make him an important addition as Lincoln look to build on their promising start to the League One season.
Writer’s View
This deal has the hallmarks of a shrewd move for Lincoln. Okoronkwo is still developing, but his mix of physicality and technical ability makes him better equipped than some Premier League loanees. With Moylan sidelined and Freddie Draper asked to operate deeper at times, the Everton youngster offers balance across the forward line. If he adapts quickly, he could provide both goals and assists at a crucial stage of the campaign.
