David Moyes has revealed Everton’s plans to safeguard James Garner’s future.
Garner’s original four-year contract signed on his summer 2022 arrival is set to expire at the end of this season, leading to speculation of interest from rivals.
However the Blues have the option to activate a 12-month in the midfielder’s existing deal should he not agree fresh terms before the campaign concludes.
And Moyes insists that the club will trigger the clause to avoid Garner, who has been a standout performer since the Scot’s return, being allowed to leave as a free agent.
He said: “Look, I wouldn’t be letting [Garner] go and I think the club will do everything they can to make sure that he stays.
“It’s probably a bit of a difference and shows signs [of progression] because I’m not sure many clubs have been after many Everton players in the past.
“But now they’re maybe starting to take a bit of interest, which is a good sign.
“Hopefully he signs a new contract when the time comes but at the end of the season he’s got an option as well so obviously, we’ll be on that if we need to be.”