Report: Digne close to agreeing new Everton contract with talks progressing well
Everton are close to tying up a new contract for defender Lucas Digne, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Digne has been a revelation for the Toffees ever since his 2018 switch from La Liga giants Barcelona, proving to be one of their most influential players with his raids down the left wing and superb crossing ability.
He has missed Everton’s last eight matches with an ankle injury but is due to return in the coming weeks after he recently resumed training.
Liverpool Echo’s Everton reporter Phil Kirkbride said, “Discussions over a new deal for the Blues’ left-back were opened recently and the ECHO understands that negotiations are going well and Digne is now expected to put pen to paper on a new deal that will reflect his growing importance to the club.
“Digne’s existing contract runs until the summer of 2023 and the France international could be handed a new long-term deal, similar to the new five-year deal Micheal Keane was given in August.”
Missing from the side since Everton’s 3-2 win over Fulham on November 22, Digne will be eyeing up his return, with an FA Cup fixture with Rotherham on January 9 followed by a Premier League trip to Wolves.
Big boost as Digne gets set to resume normal service
News of an imminent contract renewal for Digne is sure to thrill Everton fans, with the French international a fan favourite at Goodison Park.
It will also be a big source of joy for manager Carlo Ancelotti, with Digne so vital to Everton attacks and particularly the form of striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
There are also a dearth of natural senior replacements for Digne in the left-back role.
In his absence, Ancelotti has turned to Ben Godfrey and the summer signing has not let him down, covering admirably as Everton have lost only twice in the eight games missed by Digne.
However, given he is naturally a central defender and is right-footed, it is fair to say the Toffees have lost a great deal of width down their left flank.
In Digne’s last three games for Everton they recorded over 20 crosses in all of them, per Wyscout. In the eight games since they have failed to do so once.
That reduced service has left the likes of Calvert-Lewin in short supply, with the England striker now without a goal in his last six games.
Digne’s impending return, coupled with news of an extension to his Everton deal, is set to give the side a big boost as they seek to make it a successful 2021.
In other Everton news, Osman gives his view on Calvert-Lewin’s goalscoring struggles.