Vitalii Mykolenko’s agent reveals key Everton message behind contract decision
Vitalii Mykolenko extended his terms at Everton earlier this summer.
David Moyes had made it clear that he wanted to keep the Ukrainian around at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Reports from his home country had suggested that a one-year deal was close in January but it took another five months to ultimately seal something.
Goodison News covered Mykolenko's contract extension in June after the Blues announced that he had agreed to stay.
New insight has been provided into the negotiations that saw him commit his future until 2029.
His agent has spoken out, revealing the message from the Merseyside club that played a key part in the decision.
What did Vitalii Mykolenko's agent say about new Everton deal?
Vadim Shablii has claimed that his client was easily convinced by the Blues' proposal.
He recognised the relationship between the parties and hinted at a key message that he was valued in L3.
Speaking to Flashscore in an interview published on Tuesday, he said: “Any new contract is the result of serious discussions, but in Vitalii’s case, we had a good understanding of the situation and his relationship with the club.
“He has been playing in the Premier League for several years, knows Everton very well and feels comfortable at the club.
“It was important for us to understand that the club really counted on him and saw him as part of their long-term project.
“In the end, we felt that continuing the relationship was the right decision for everyone.”
Why Mykolenko contract was so important for Everton
Mykolenko signing new terms was vital for the Toffees, as if he had left, it would have left even more work to do in the market.
They already need a right-back, wingers, another central midfielder and perhaps a striker, so it would have been difficult to pull off a deal to sign a new left-back too.
The 54-cap international has been a reliable option for the Merseysiders in his four year stint so far, and it looks as though he will continue to do so.
The Blues apparently made that message clear, judging by Shablii's comments about the situation, meaning that the player was comfortable to stick around.
It may well prove to be a solid piece of business, if he can continue with his solid defensive play that he has shown over the years, and improve in the final third.
Given that his back-up, Adam Aznou is nowhere near ready for the English top-flight, it made sense to ensure that the Ukraine star was still in the squad for the new season.
The Toffees can now focus on bringing in fresh additions to improve their side and hopefully push on towards the European places for the upcoming campaign.