Everton are planning to use an option to extend Vitaliy Mykolenko’s contract until 2027 and keep him away from Galatasaray.
That’s according to Ukraine’s Express. They also report that Mykolenko does not intend to move to the Turkish side at this point.
Reports over the last few weeks have indicated that the Everton defender has multiple suitors in Türkiye, including Galatasaray. They were reportedly keen on talks this month as he can speak to suitors under the Bosman ruling.
That’s because his contract is due to expire in the summer, leaving him free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with who he likes. Everton, though, seemingly aren’t going to let him depart on a free.
According to Express, Mykolenko isn’t negotiating with Galatasaray and Everton plan to keep him anyway. They’re going to use a clause in his current deal to extend it to 2027. Mykolenko is also not interested in the move.
The 25-year-old wants to play in Europe’s top five leagues and doesn’t consider the Turkish Super Lig to be the right step. Thus, it appears he won’t be moving at any point this month.
Mykolenko already talked down Everton exit claims
That is all in line with previous Ukraine reports, with an exit talked down repeatedly. In November, the player himself dismissed claims he didn’t want to renew with Everton.
“That I don’t want to negotiate [contract] with Everton is a complete lie, because we just haven’t talked about it yet,” Mykolenko explained.
“I know my agent will be talking to Everton representatives soon. I don’t even think about it because I like to play for this club, I get a kick out of it here, that’s the most important thing for me. My family is comfortable living here. Basically, there is nothing more to say.
“It doesn’t affect me at all. I know how the coaching staff feels about me, how the club feels about me.”
