Everton have been in talks with a number of first-teamers over a new contract.
Jarrad Branthwaite has just committed his future to Everton, penning a contract renewal which will run through to 2030.
Branthwaite had interest from the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, but decided to continue his journey on Merseyside.
Michael Keane has also just extended his stay at Finch Farm, reportedly snubbing Championship outfit Wrexham.
And finally, after months of negotiations, Everton News understands Idrissa Gana Gueye has signed a new deal.
Here is why there was a delay with the deal.
Everton midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye in action against Liverpool.
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Why Idrissa Gana Gueye’s Everton contract took so long
Gueye was arguably Everton’s most consistent performer last season, under both Sean Dyche and David Moyes.
The veteran actually officially became a free agent on July 1, however, the Toffees have finally managed to tie him down to fresh terms.
Speaking exclusively to Everton News, journalist Graeme Bailey has revealed that there was a hold-up over the contract length.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
“David Moyes pushed hard for Gueye to stay and he really wanted to, but the question was over length of deal,” Bailey explained.
“Everton were unsure about the two-year contract that the player wanted, but Moyes went into bat for the player and convinced the club’s hierarchy it was right for them, as he still has a lot to offer.
“To be honest, I am told it was not a major holdup – everyone at the club loves him and they were always confident he would stay.”
Gueye will be pivotal in Everton’s transition to Hill Dickinson Stadium
Moyes clearly recognises that experience is needed ahead of the move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Gueye, Keane and Seamus Coleman all kept on.
Gueye, especially, will remain an integral part of the starting line-up and is likely to form a partnership with a younger player.
Harrison Armstrong may well get the nod, or a new signing, with the likes of Germany under-21 international Merlin Rohl linked to Everton.
Moyes also has Douglas Luiz on his radar.