CONFIRMED: Richarlison signs new Everton contract

Despite their lowly position in the Premier League table, the Blues are looking ahead on one front at least.

Last week Director of Football Marcel Brands had announced that the club were working on an improved deal for Richarlison with tabloid gossip claiming that Manchester United were eyeing the player.

Today the club website has confirmed that the Brazilian has signed the new contract that will keep the player with the Toffees until 2024, likely seeing us out of Goodison Park and ushering us into a new era at the new stadium at Bramley Moore Docks.

“I intend to be here a long time. This was the club which gave me the opportunity to show my football.

“It was here I managed to get a place in the Brazil national team and it was here I have scored lots of goals in the Premier League.

“The Club trusts me and I trust them. The supporters have a lot of affection for me and I try to give back all this affection as much as possible on the pitch.

“I go out and put my life on the line for them. I try to sweat blood and tears for this club. I intend to continue honouring the shirt and making the fans happy.

“And I hope they continue singing my name.”

The 22-year-old has 20 goals for the Blues in 50 games started, and acknowledges the impact that Marco Silva and the club has had on his continuing development.

“I just look to work really hard on a daily basis… I want to score goals but my first objective is always to help the team - then you think about your own scoring record and creating assists.

“Everybody at Everton needs to have it in their minds that we need to aim high and win trophies and we all think as players we can develop further and lift a cup, maybe even this season. We want to make the fans happy by winning trophies.

“My development and progress is clear for everyone to see and Marco Silva has been part of that. He has my trust and the trust of the whole group. It’s us on the pitch and we are looking to help him as much as possible because Marco Silva is an excellent person.

“I need to continue focussing and being happy here and I think I have made the right decision in extending my contract.

“Now it is time to continue the focus and to make the fans happy.”

The timing of the new deal is certainly interesting with Silva on the hot seat, and should the Portuguese manager get sacked at any point, what impact that will have on Richarlison remains to be seen.