The Everton midfielder has put an end to speculation surrounding his future by signing a new deal
Idrissa Gueye applauds the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Everton and Southampton at Goodison Park. Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Idrissa Gueye applauds the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Everton and Southampton at Goodison Park. Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Idrissa Gueye has committed his future to Everton. The veteran midfielder has agreed a new one-year contract with the club, which includes the option of another year.
The 35-year-old's situation had been the subject of speculation as his previous contract ticked down. However, the Blues have secured a key player for a huge season, with the club starting life at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium in just over a month.
Gueye was central to Everton pulling well clear of relegation trouble in the second half of last season. He won both the Players' and Supporters' Player of the Year awards thanks to a succession of tireless displays at the heart of the team.
Speaking after signing his deal, the Senegal international said he was delighted to extend what is his second stint with the club.
He said: "Everyone knows what Everton means to me and my family. After six seasons here, this club is more than just a place I play, it’s part of who I am. I’m proud to start my seventh year as a Blue. Last season was a strong one for me personally, and I feel ready, fresh, and more driven than ever to keep pushing.
“With our beautiful new stadium and a real sense of momentum throughout the club, this season feels like a turning point, the chance to build something big and lasting.
“We’ve got the foundations. Now it’s up to us: players, staff, the manager, the board, and most importantly, our fans, to come together so we can raise the bar again and take Everton back to where it belongs. I’m fully committed to that challenge. Let’s go again. Together.”
Gueye initially joined Everton from Aston Villa in 2016 and quickly became one of their key players. His performances attracted the attention of Paris Saint-Germain after three seasons and he completed a £30 million move.
After three years with the Ligue 1 giants, the midfielder returned to Goodison Park under Frank Lampard and despite his advancing years he remained an irrepressible presence at the centre of Everton's midfield.
Gueye follows Seamus Coleman in signing up for another season, while Everton also announced a new five-year contract for Jarrad Branthwaite on Wednesday.
Everton could be without their key midfielder and his compatriot Iliman Ndiaye for seven games later in the campaign, as Gueye is expected to feature for Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
On securing Gueye for next season, Moyes said: "We are delighted Idrissa has re-signed. His experience and his knowledge of the club is going to be so important going forward with the introduction of lots of new players and the new stadium. Idrissa will play a big part in integrating everybody."