Everton are reportedly set to offer Idrissa Gueye a bumper new deal to secure his long-term future amid interest from Arsenal
According to a report by Daily Mail, Everton are hoping to tie down Idrissa Gueye to a new long-term deal at Goodison Park. The Toffees have opened talks with the Senegalese midfielder, who is drawing the interest of Arsenal, over a renewal and a new contract could be on his table soon.
Gueye joined Everton last summer after an impressive debut season with Aston Villa during which he was the standout player in a side that endured a disastrous campaign that ended with relegation from the Premier League.
At Everton, the player quickly established himself as a key component in Ronald Koeman’s side. Gueye impressed with his work-rate and tireless energy that helped him keep things tight at the centre of the park, breaking up plays while also distributing the ball smartly.
In all, he made 35 appearances across all competitions for Everton last season, and has gone on to start this season in solid fashion as well. His exploits haven’t gone unnoticed either, with several clubs keeping a keen eye on the Senegal international.
Everton are preparing a new contract for midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye. (Source: Daily Mail) #EFC pic.twitter.com/rssZnufQKm
— Transfer Centre Live (@TransferCenLive) September 27, 2017
Among these, Arsenal is reportedly leading the chasing pack for Gueye, having been heavily linked with him for a long time. Indeed, midfield has been an area of concern for a long time for Arsene Wenger, with his side lacking a player who can do the dirty work and halt opposition attacks right in their tracks.
With the likes of Jack Wilshere and Granit Xhaka adept at dictating the tempo of the game, while Aaron Ramsey provides the threat with his ability to create spaces for his teammates and eye for a goal, a player like Gueye can help add another dimension to Wenger’s side by providing solidity in the middle of the park.
But, Everton are eager too keep their prized asset away from the prying eyes of Premier League rivals, and are preparing a bumper new contract that could see him pledge his long-term future to the club. The Merseyside club have already opened talks with Gueye for the renewal.
The new deal will reportedly have improved terms that will bring the 28-year-old in line with the club’s top earners. Having already lost Romelu Lukaku to Manchester United and with Ross Barkley likely to depart on a free transfer as well, tying up Gueye to a new deal will be a step in the right direction.
It now remains to be seen how smoothly talks progress on a new deal, with Arsenal and several other Premier League clubs reportedly holding firm interest in the player.
