Everton’s director of football Marcel Brands has signed a new three-year deal.
Brands arrived at Goodison Park in June 2018 from PSV Eindhoven to become Steve Walsh’s replacement in heading up the Blues’ recruitment strategy.
A reputation for unearthing prodigious talents saw Hirving Lozano, Dries Mertens and Gini Wijnaldum join the Eredivisie giants during his time there.
On Merseyside, Brands has continued his track record with Ben Godfrey’s capture from Norwich City among the Blues’ more eye-catching signings.
The highly-regarded Dutchman, who is also a member of the Goodison board, had been due to see his contract expire at the end of the current campaign.
But Everton confirmed on Tuesday that Brands will remain at the club until summer 2024 after he agreed to a fresh extension with Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Chairman Bill Kenwright revealed his delight and that of majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri in securing the 59-year-old administrator’s long-term future.
He said: “There hasn’t really been any doubt for some time that Marcel and I would sit down and agree a new contract.
“With Farhad’s blessing it took us around about one play of Z-Cars to reach an agreement.
“As well as being terrific at his job, Marcel has an excellent working relationship with Carlo and with our CEO, Denise (Barrett-Baxendale) and myself and it was important to maintain the structure and stability we have put in place over recent years.
“Farhad and I both wish our leadership team success and happiness as we all work together to build an exciting future for our great club.”
Brands added: “Everton is a very special football club and a club with clear and exciting ambitions.
“We are making good progress and I believe we have everything in place for us to be successful.
“I am delighted to continue to work alongside such supportive and ambitious colleagues on our board and executive team.
“This, together with such a talented manager and supportive owner and chairman, puts us in a really strong position for the future.”