Which Players Should Everton Extend?

When they weren't signing Romelu Lukaku to a record deal, Everton gave Seamus Coleman, Ross Barkley and John Stones new contracts. Now there is news that James McCarthy has reportedly signed a new contract to stay with the club. This was a smart move by Roberto Martinez and Bill Kentwright that has locked up an important position for years to come. The question now is, who is most likely to sign a new contract with the club.

Kevin Mirallas

The speedy Belgian joined Everton from Greek side Olympiacos in 2012 for a £6 million fee. Since joining the club, Mirallas has become a key contributor notching 16 goals and 10 assists in league competition. His blistering pace, passing ability and skill on set pieces has endeared him to supporters and he is all but guaranteed a place in the starting lineup when healthy. He has also become an important member of the Belgian International squad and played his part in helping the Red Devils get to the Quarterfinals of the 2014 World Cup.

Mirallas should be the next Toffee to get a new deal as he has become a vital member of the squad, and at 26 years old, is in the prime of his career.  Everton would be hard pressed to find a replacement of his caliber at a reasonable price tag, therefore the best course of action would be to sign Mirallas to a long term deal.

Steven Naismith

Naismith has arguably been Everton's best offensive player this season having scored in the team's first three games. The former Rangers forward initially struggled to find his place playing on the wing, but has become a serious goal scoring threat when deployed in the middle of the pitch. When Romelu Lukaku and Lacina Traore went down with injuries last season, Naismith was an able substitute and finished the year with 10 goals. With Ross Barkley out with a long-term knee injury, Naismith has filled in admirably and has become an important offensive contributor.

Naismith's contract expires in 2016 when he will be 29 years old. Despite his great play this season it would not be smart to sign him to a four or five year deal, but offering a one or two year deal would be a good way to lock up a useful player while he still has his legs under him.

Bryan Oviedo

The final selection for a contract extension was a tough one, but the best long-term choice would be Bryan Ovideo. Before suffering a horrific leg injury last season, Ovideo was one of the most impressive youngsters on the squad and gave Everton their first win at Old Trafford in 21 years. Leighton Baines isn't getting any younger and it would be smart to keep Ovideo and Luke Garbutt on the roster as Baines enters his thirties.

The case for an Oviedo extension may not be as strong as Mirallas or Naismith, but the Costa Rican was very impressive last season and at 24 years old he is the youngest player on this list and has his best years ahead of him.