A player who has been linked with a move to Everton has reacted to Seamus Coleman extending his stay at the club.
The ever-popular 35-year-old defender is set to feature in the Toffees’ last season at Goodison Park after penning a one-year extension.
Initially, it was unclear whether the £60,000 signing would remain on Merseyside upon the expiration of his previous deal.
Speaking to Everton’s website after the club announced his extension, Coleman said: “Everyone knows what Everton means to me, and I’m very proud and honoured to sign a new contract and to keep playing for this special club in the best league in the world.
“I give it my all for the Football Club, and I’m just really happy to extend my time here. I’m going to cherish and enjoy every moment.”
Unsurprisingly, the news has been welcomed by fans and colleagues across the country – and there was one particularly interesting comment on Everton’s Instagram post.
Sammie Szmodics sends Seamus Coleman message after contract news
According to newspaper journalist Alan Nixon, the Toffees have been credited with an interest in Sammie Szmodics.
The Championship Golden Boot winner netted 24 times during the 2023/24 season and has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
Blackburn Rovers, however, are believed to be asking for upwards of £20million for the 28-year-old, who has previously been with Peterborough United and Colchester United.
It remains to be seen whether Everton’s interest in Szmodics is genuine.
But, the Blackburn star appears to be keeping a close eye on events at Goodison Park.
After Coleman’s new contract was announced on Instagram, the former Peterborough star sent two ‘hands up’ emojis, displaying his delight at the Irishman’s fresh deal.
Sammie Szmodics to Everton feels unlikely
Szmodics to Everton feels unlikely at the moment – and fans shouldn’t look too deeply into the Instagram comment.
The Blackburn man has produced social media content with Still Ryan and several Everton players in the past, so this isn’t a one-off.
Rovers’ valuation of the 28-year-old is far too high at the moment, and unless the fee comes down, it’s doubtful that any move will materialise.
Everton need to move away from signing players who are heading into their late 20s for hefty fees.
Leaving Szmodics firmly in the transfer ‘rumour’ pile is for the best.