Everton are set to open talks over a new contract as they seek to reward Mason Holgate’s performances this season, according to Telegraph Sport.
Football Insider had reported last week that the Blues had begun discussions over a new long-term deal for the 23-year old defender, amid reported transfer interest from Newcastle and Sheffield United.
Holgate has emerged as arguably Everton’s best player this season, having broken through into the starting lineup against Brighton in October.
Including that game, the centre-back has now started and played the duration in Everton’s previous 18 games, which includes two Carabao Cup appearances and an FA Cup game (Transfermarkt).
Now, Everton are prepared to extend Holgate’s contract with the club, which is currently set to expire in 2022.
Read Everton Verdict
Alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has also drastically improved this season, Holgate’s development in recent months is a huge indicator of the quality of coaching at Finch Farm. Everton have seen another young English talent flourish, and while most of it is Holgate’s own doing, the club deserve credit for bringing another youngster through.
Holgate has stood heads and shoulders above Michael Keane this season, as the latter has dropped off into obscurity at Goodison Park, despite impressing often last season.
Holgate has looked composed, comfortable in possession and extremely confident, and with Ian Wright labelling him as ‘fantastic’ against Watford (Liverpool Echo), it isn’t hard to see why the Blues want to tie him down.
With Richarlison having signed a new contract in December, and with Telegraph Sport reporting in the same month that Calvert-Lewin will soon be set to sign a new and improved contract, it is massively positive that Everton are continuing to secure players that will be important in the club’s future.
