Thursday, 23rd January, 2014
Leighton Baines' contract renewal is heading towards a very positive outcome, according to manager Roberto Martinez, with "good will" on all sides of the table.
Baines is expected to be given a new long-term deal worth £75,000 per week by Everton, who fended off some heavy interest from Manchester United last summer.
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The England left-back has suffered through a toe injury but remains a key figure for Everton's push for the Champions League places this season.
As with any player though, Baines' contract running out in 2015 will see fresh speculation gather this year, and Everton have been working behind the scenes to ensure his retention.
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For Martinez, the signs all point down the desired path, as he told a press conference today: "The vibe is good but it's something that, until it's done, you don't really know.
"It's been very positive and there's lots of good will from both parties. He's always said [he wants to say]. Even when the transfer window was open in the summer, he remained a professional.
"He's an icon for Everton. For us, it's very important he commits himself for long with us. We are very very excited and are working hard to achieve a positive outcome."
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