There are some good quality, experienced potential alternatives around, such as [Burnley's Josh Brownhill,](https://princerupertstower.com/burnley-midfielder-could-be-available-to-everton-on-a-free-01jwvr4qnvv4) who might well be available on a free transfer this summer.
Everton also have several other younger midfielders already in their squad who might step up.
However, while James Garner has become a regular starter and Tim Iroegbunam showed potential before his recent injury, neither is exactly the same type of hard-tackling number-six-type player who relishes the battle in the trenches as much as Gueye does.
The 35-year-old Senegal star is an evergreen defensive machine who seems to be getting better and better with age, and in fact enjoyed probably his best campaign in a royal blue shirt last season. That led to him being awarded the Player of the Season by players and supporters.
He has been absolutely integral to the way the Toffees play under a succession of managers and continues to be under David Moyes.
It appears likely that Gueye will sign another deal and remain on Merseyside for at least one more year, but after that, Everton will almost certainly need to replace him.
Even if Gueye does stay, the Blues still have to find a player who can take over from him long term. Despite his apparent eternal vigour, at that age, he could suffer a sudden decline, something that can happen to players once they get beyond thirty or so.
One young player who might be worth considering as that long-term alternative is Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, who is currently plying his trade in the French Ligue 1 with Strasbourg.
Santos is a tough-tackling central [midfield player](https://www.whoscored.com/players/451236/show/andrey-santos) who appears to have the same sort of skill set as Gueye and an equal relish for the fight. He also chips in with goals, too, and that is something that Everton have a desperate need for.
While signing another midfielder does not seem to be an immediate priority for Moyes during this summer transfer window, French football is a fertile place to find fresh young talent, and a player like Santos would probably be available for a modest fee.
There is another factor to consider, too. In the Christmas and New Year period, both Gueye, along with fellow Senegal international Ilman Ndiaye, are very likely to be away for several weeks or longer, playing for their country in the Africa Cup of Nations, and so would be unavailable at a critical time in the season.
Having a player who has had time to adjust to the Premier League and could step up, might make a lot of sense, given how important Gueye's contributions are to the Blues.