Everton's Idrissa Gueye contingency plan explained as next deal eyed after £16m move

Everton already seem to have a plan in place regardless of what happens with Idrissa Gueye this summer.

The Senegal international ran out of contract at Hill Dickinson Stadium as the season came to an end.

His departure was sealed after the 30 June passed and his deal officially expired.

That doesn't necessarily mean he won't be sticking around on Merseyside as his future now remains up in the air.

The Toffees still have a decision to make as they look set for a potentially transformational transfer window.

They already have a plan in place for Gueye this summer as his fate looks set to be sealed shortly.

Why Everton are planning for life after Idrissa Gueye

The World Cup has played a part in delaying any sort of decision surrounding the 36-year-old.

He was a regular for his nation in North America before his side were dumped out by Belgium on Wednesday.

The Blues ace started every game at the summer tournament, but is now facing an early return home.

That looks set to give Everton a chance to sort his current situation.

The Liverpool Echo on Friday that attention will now turn to his contract after World Cup elimination.

There was contact between the L3 club and Gueye's representatives before the end of the campaign, but no deal was arranged.

He will turn 37 in the early stages of the new season and as a result, the Toffees want to be less reliant on him despite David Moyes previously describing him as a "leader" after he penned a new deal in July 2025.

That would be the case even if he were to sign fresh terms on Merseyside despite being integral to their work last season.

The midfielder's minutes could be hampered regardless of what happens and especially if a new midfield option comes in.

Everton already know who could replace Gueye

Hayden Hackney has already come in from Middlesbrough for £16million, but the Blues may not be done there.

In the same Echo report, Joe Thomas suggested that a Everton remain open to bringing in a new defensive midfielder.

That would only be the case if someone becomes available on terms they are happy with.

Parma's Mandela Keita has been put forward as a target after being monitored already.

The Belgian could be seen as the successor to Gueye as 24-year-old with top level experience in both Italy and Belgium.

He could either learn from the Senegal ace if he stays or replace him totally, as long as a deal can be sorted that suits the Merseysiders.