Report: Brands to open contract talks with in-demand Everton ace
Everton defender Mason Holgate has been one of the few players at the club who has emerged from the season so far with some credit.
The 23-year-old has shifted between midfield and defence seamlessly and, while he’s not been perfect, he’s certainly taken a step forward this term.
So it was rather concerning when the Daily Mirror reported this week that the Blues’ Premier League rivals Newcastle United are eyeing a move for the youngster.
However, it seems that the club are now taking steps to ensure that one of their brightest talents doesn’t fly the nest.
The Athletic reported on Friday that the club’s director of football Marcel Brands is set to open contact talks with Holgate’s representatives imminently.
The defender still has two-and-a-half-years remaining on his current deal, but his improved form has called for fresh terms.
Does Holgate deserve a new deal?
You’d have to say that he does, yes, and not just to ward off Newcastle’s interest. He’s been one of the team’s most consistent performers all season long.
He’s played in 16 games in all competitions, averaging 1.5 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and three clearances per game, with a pass success rate of 81%.
Plus, the fact that Carlo Ancelotti only has three senior centre halves – of which Holgate is one – makes keeping him imperative. Yes, give him a new contract.
In other Everton news, former Toffees boss David Moyes has been reflecting on his early interactions with Ancelotti.