Everton are still confident Leighton Baines will put pen-to-paper on a new contract.
The Blues defender's current deal runs out this summer, but he is expected to sign a new one this week which will keep him at Goodison Park for a further 12 months.
Confidence grew around the 34-year-old was committing to a new deal last week, and official confirmation of that signing is now expected to happen in the coming days.
The left back was in a similar situation to Phil Jagielka last term as the pair reached the end of their contracts with the club, but it was announced earlier this month the captain would be released this summer.
Marco Silva is keen to keep Baines as back up to the impressive Lucas Digne, who quickly took his place as Everton's first choice on the left side of defence following his summer arrival from Barcelona.
Meanwhile Antonee Robinson, who recently spoke about his chances with the Blues, looks more likely to be moving on loan once more after this news.
The left-back recently told Wigan Today: "The next goal for me is to kick on towards the Everton first team.
"I’ll be going back for pre-season fighting fit and raring to go.
"The manager’s been in touch with me, he keeps telling me what I need to work on and stuff.
"He’s been pleased with me for what I’ve done this season so I don’t see why he wouldn’t give me a chance next season."
However, a new contract for Baines is likely to limit the opportunities for the youngster - and the USA international could be set for another loan spell in the coming season.
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