Everton have made extending the contract of veteran midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye a key objective during the current transfer window, with the club viewing the Senegal international as essential to their plans moving forward.
The 34-year-old, whose current deal is set to expire this summer, remains in talks over a potential extension that would see him continue his career at Goodison Park — and soon, at Everton’s new home, Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium.
According to The Athletic, Gueye is considered a top priority for renewal by the club’s hierarchy, who are keen to retain his experience and influence both on and off the pitch.
Since returning to Merseyside in 2022 from Paris Saint-Germain, the midfielder has been a consistent presence in the Toffees’ squad, featuring in more than 35 matches during the recent Premier League campaign.
Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Gueye has defied expectations with a string of composed and energetic performances that have solidified his role in the heart of Everton’s midfield.
The 2022 Africa Cup of Nations winner has continued to display the tenacity, tactical discipline, and positional awareness that have long been hallmarks of his game.
Now under the leadership of David Moyes, who returned to manage the club earlier this year, Gueye has found a strong ally.
Moyes is believed to hold the midfielder in high regard, describing him as a “terrific” professional whose understanding of the game and leadership qualities remain invaluable assets in the squad.
Everton’s new ownership, The Friedkin Group, are reportedly eager to retain experienced core players like Gueye as they seek to stabilize the club’s sporting project and begin a new chapter at their incoming stadium.
Gueye’s presence is seen as instrumental in guiding younger players and maintaining a competitive standard within the dressing room.
However, discussions over an extension are understood to hinge on two main factors: salary expectations and Gueye’s role in the team moving forward.
While the club values his contributions highly, negotiations will likely involve a delicate balance between rewarding his impact and aligning with Everton’s financial structure.
Gueye himself has yet to publicly commit to a decision regarding his future, and it remains to be seen whether an agreement can be reached.
The midfielder, who previously played for Aston Villa before his first stint at Everton, has not indicated any desire to retire but may be weighing his options as he considers the final stages of his career.
If a deal is agreed, Gueye would remain part of Everton’s squad as they prepare to enter a new era at Bramley-Moore Dock, bringing with him not only experience but a deep understanding of the club’s identity and expectations.
As the transfer window progresses, Everton’s commitment to securing Gueye’s signature signals their intent to build a squad that blends youth with proven leadership — and, crucially, to ensure that the heartbeat of their midfield continues to thrive under Moyes’ stewardship.