Everton are well aware of their dire financial position and how it is due to affect their summer plans.
In fact, Kevin Thelwell made the fanbase well aware of that in a letter, which marked a refreshing moment of open communication between the higher-ups and Evertonians.
It is all the fans have ever asked for, and is a positive step in the right direction even if the information offered was rather miserable.
However, that has since been offset with a fresh update, which whilst not the most exciting one in the club’s recent history, does denote some much-needed stability during a period where mass upheaval is almost expected after many players impressed this season.
Ashley Young set to sign a new contract with Everton
Jarrad Branthwaite’s Everton future and Amadou Onana’s transfer status are two of the most widely scrutinised parts of the club at the moment, given their respective youth and potential in the Premier League.
However, quietly in the background, it seems like Thelwell has been working on ensuring that some of his stars stick around rather than touting out huge exits.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract is one which he will hope to see renewed soon, but just yesterday we also learnt that Ashley Young is now closing in on a new deal, having joined last summer on a free transfer.
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth wrote on X: ‘Ashley Young close to agreeing new one-year deal with Everton after positive talks. Young made 31 Premier League appearances last season – including 27 starts.’
Smart business from Kevin Thelwell
Although he is not the most revered person on Merseyside, it cannot be denied that this is the perfect start to the summer for Thelwell.
After all, the Director of Football has already been forced to come out and admit that sales are likely, and in turn that will mean that inbound signings are equally as unlikely.
The money is non-existent, and only with a huge sale will the club have any funds to actually invest in the squad.
So, with Young having been a solid stalwart throughout the campaign, able to play on both wings and at left and right-back, keeping him around for just one more year marks a no-brainer.
It is an intelligent in-house move, which keeps things ticking over in Sean Dyche’s camp. He will remain, offer a fine foil to a number of players, and hopefully provide the stability needed to help guide them through this upcoming campaign.
Then, at its conclusion, the 38-year-old can gladly depart, having led the Toffees into the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium.