As the season draws to a close, the rumour mill is starting to churn, and for us Evertonians, one of the key talking points is always who will be wearing the famous royal blue next season. With several permanent players’ contracts expiring in June 2025 and a clutch of loanees set to return to their parent clubs, manager [Insert Hypothetical Everton Manager Name Here] and the board have some crucial decisions to make. Let’s delve into the Goodison careers of those facing uncertain futures and offer a Blue’s perspective on whether they deserve another crack at it.
Seamus Coleman
Our inspirational club captain, Seamus Coleman, has been an absolute stalwart since his bargain move from Sligo Rovers back in January 2009. With over 420 appearances under his belt, the Irishman embodies the spirit and fight we demand from anyone who pulls on the Everton shirt. His unwavering commitment, leadership on and off the pitch, and occasional knack for a crucial goal have made him a true legend in the eyes of the Everton faithful.
Verdict: Absolutely.
Even if his playing time needs to be managed, his influence in the dressing room and his ability to still perform when called upon make the offered one-year extension a no-brainer.
Ashley Young
Veteran winger-turned-full-back Ashley Young joined us on a free transfer in July 2023 and has since racked up around 60 appearances. His experience and versatility have been valuable assets, providing cover in various positions across the backline and occasionally further forward. While perhaps not the long-term solution, his professionalism and willingness to contribute cannot be questioned.
Verdict: On the fence.
If the terms are reasonable and he’s seen as a reliable squad player who can still offer quality in short bursts, another year could be beneficial for stability. However, we also need to look towards the future and potentially blood younger players.
Michael Keane
Arriving from Burnley in July 2017, Michael Keane has amassed approximately 240 appearances for the Toffees. While he’s shown glimpses of his quality and has been a regular fixture at times, his Everton career has been marked by inconsistency and costly errors that have frustrated the Goodison Park faithful. With reported interest from Italy and the US, this summer could be the right time for a fresh start for both Keane and the club.
Verdict: No.
While he’s given us service, his inconsistencies have often left us vulnerable. Moving forward, we need more reliable options in central defence.
Abdoulaye Doucouré
The powerful midfielder, Abdoulaye Doucouré, joined from Watford in September 2020 and has since made around 160 appearances. His energy, box-to-box dynamism, and crucial goals – particularly in tight matches – have made him a popular figure. The fact that his contract has an option to extend suggests the club recognises his value.
Verdict: Yes.
When on form, Doucouré is a vital cog in our midfield. Exercising that option seems like a sensible move to maintain his drive and goal threat in the team.
Idrissa Gana Gueye
The Senegalese international, Idrissa Gana Gueye, has had two spells at Goodison, first from 2016 to 2018 and then returning in August 2022 from PSG. His tenacious tackling and ability to break up play have been hallmarks of his game, contributing to his estimated 230 combined appearances. The club activating the option to extend his current deal until June 2025 indicates his continued importance to the squad.
Verdict: Yes.
While he might not be getting any younger, his experience and defensive nous are still crucial, providing a shield for our backline.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
A product of Sheffield United’s academy, Dominic Calvert-Lewin arrived at Everton in August 2016 and has since led the line in around 230 matches. When fit and firing, he’s a handful for any defence, possessing excellent aerial ability and a knack for finding the net. However, injuries have unfortunately hampered his progress in recent seasons. With ongoing contract talks, his future remains a key point of speculation.
Verdict: No.
On his day, he’s our best striker. However, his injury record is a major concern. The terms of any new contract would need to reflect this risk, but keeping a fit and firing DCL would be a massive boost.
João Virgínia
Portuguese goalkeeper João Virgínia joined the club in July 2018 from Arsenal but has seen limited first-team action, with around 10 appearances, mostly in cup competitions. As a backup option, he’s provided cover when needed, and the club holds an option to extend his contract.
Verdict: Possibly
He is a reliable third-choice keeper, however, if there’s an opportunity to bring in a younger, more promising understudy with potential to push for the number one spot in the future, that might be a better long-term strategy.
Asmir Begović
Another experienced backup goalkeeper, Asmir Begović, joined on a free transfer in July 2021 and has also made around 10 appearances. With his contract expiring, the club will need to decide whether to retain his experience or look for a different second or third choice.
Verdict: Probably not.
While his experience is valuable, it might be an opportunity to reduce the wage bill or bring in a younger keeper with more potential for development.
Jack Harrison (Loanee)
Joining us initially on loan in August 2023 and returning for a second spell in 2024/25 from Leeds United, Jack Harrison has become a familiar face, racking up around 60 appearances in total. His work rate, direct running, and ability to deliver a cross have been noticeable assets on the wing. With talks reportedly underway for a permanent deal, the club clearly sees something in the England international.
Verdict: Yes, I believe so – but with Leeds being promoted, very unlikely.
His Premier League experience and consistent effort make him a valuable squad member, and securing him permanently would provide some much-needed stability in the wide areas.
Jesper Lindstrøm (Loanee)
The Danish international arrived on loan from Napoli in July 2024, and while he’s featured in approximately 25 matches, his single assist suggests his attacking output needs to improve. The club reportedly has an option to buy, indicating there’s potential seen in the player.
Verdict: It’s a gamble.
While he’s shown glimpses of his technical ability, his lack of goals and assists is a concern. The decision likely hinges on the fee involved and whether the coaching staff believe they can unlock more from him next season. He’ll need to show significant improvement if he’s to warrant a permanent move.
Armando Broja (Loanee)
Joining on loan from Chelsea in August 2024, Armando Broja’s time at Goodison has been somewhat hampered by his recovery from injury, limiting him to around 10 appearances. Seen as potential competition for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the Albanian international has had limited opportunities to showcase his talents. The club reportedly has an option to buy, suggesting they see potential despite his limited game time.
Verdict: Unsure.
If the option price is reasonable and the medical team are confident in his long-term fitness, it could be a worthwhile investment, providing much-needed competition up front. However, we need players who can contribute consistently.
Orel Mangala (Loanee)
The Belgian midfielder Orel Mangala joined us on loan from Lyon in August 2024 and has made regular appearances, estimated at around 20. He’s provided solidity and bite in the midfield during his time with the Toffees. With his loan ending and no confirmed option to buy, his future at Goodison looks uncertain.
Verdict: Yes.
He’s shown himself to be a reliable and industrious midfielder who adds a different dimension to our engine room. Losing him would leave a hole that would need to be filled.
These are just my initial thoughts, fellow Blues. No doubt there will be plenty of debate in the pubs and online about who should stay and who should go. The loan players have all played their part this season, and the decisions on their futures will be crucial in shaping our squad for the next campaign.
What are your thoughts on these loan deals, fellow Blues?
Who would you like to see the club pursue on a permanent basis?
What are your opinions on these contract situations?
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