Everton have offered Alex Iwobi new deal

Everton have offered midfielder Alex Iwobi a new contract at Goodison Park as they look to keep hold of him, according to a new update regarding his future.

The Lowdown: Iwobi impressing for Blues

The 26-year-old made the move to the Blues from Arsenal back in the summer of 2019, having struggled to become a regular in north London.

In truth, Iwobi’s performances flattered to deceive in his first few years in an Everton shirt, but as time has passed, he has become a more consistent performer.

Last season, the Nigerian made 28 appearances in the Premier League and was key in the latter stages of the relegation battle, scoring a crucial last-gasp winner at home to Newcastle United.

Meanwhile, Iwobi has continued to be an important player this term, featuring constantly and registering six assists in the lead-up to the Chelsea game on Saturday.

His current deal expires at the end of next season, however, and recent reports have suggested that he could potentially leave Everton this summer.

Now, a fresh update suggests the opposite, though, with speculation continuing to be rife.

The Latest: New contract offered

According to Football Insider, Everton are ‘keen to extend’ Iwobi’s stay at Goodison and have ‘offered him a new deal’ at the club.

It is noted that the midfielder is ‘taking his time’ over a decision, no doubt weighing up his options, especially with the Blues currently in a relegation fight once again.

Other Premier League clubs and teams across Europe are believed to be ‘keeping close tabs’ on Iwobi, as they eye up a summer bid.

The Verdict: Keep hold of him

Granted, Iwobi may not have been perfect throughout his Everton career but he is someone the club need to be keeping hold of, given his performances over the past 12 months or so, having been hailed as ‘exceptional’ by Frank Leboeuf.

As mentioned, the 58-cap and 10-goal Nigeria international has six assists to his name in the league so far this season, which is three times more than any other Blues player, which highlights his current influence.

At 26, he is also at a great age, in terms of being both experienced but also having plenty of years ahead of him, so he can be a key figure well into the future.

That being said, it would be hard to begrudge Iwobi a move away from Everton if they are relegated, given his pedigree as an established international footballer, so it should be an incentive for them to stay up this season.