Vitaliy Mykolenko CAN’T play for Everton against Brighton after becoming first January signing - here’s why

The left-back has completed his expected move from Dynamo Kiev.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Everton have announced Vitaliy Mykolenko as their first signing of the January transfer window.

The left-back has joined the Toffees from Dynamo Kiev for an undisclosed fee - reported to be around £18 million.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He’s signed a contract until the summer of 2026 at Goodison Park.

Can he play against Brighton?

However, Mykolenko cannot play for Everton in their fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion tomorrow.

Premier League rules state that no new players registered between 1-3 January are eligible to play in the Premier League during matchweek 21.

That means that Mykolenko would have to watch from the stands if he was officially an Everton player and in the country.

When could Mykolenko make his Everton debut?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 22-year-old could instead make his debut on Saturday 8 January when Benitez’s side travel to Hull City in the FA Cup third round (17.30 kick-off).

Mykolenko’s Premier League bow could be the trip to Norwich on 15 January.

His arrival also casts more doubt over Lucas Digne’s future.

The France international has not featured for the past three games amid a falling out with Rafa Benitez.

Digne has been linked to several clubs including Chelsea, Inter Milan and Napoli.