16. Marcus Bent - Contract Up June 2007

Wigan are rumoured to be on the verge of signing Marcus for £1.8m. Everton will make a profit, but we must have someone else lined up to replace him. (04/08/05)

Man Shiiiitttteeeehhhh's new Boss, Physco Pearce is said to be keen on adding Marcus Bent to his squad for the forthcoming season. He see's Benty as an ideal replacement for Jonathan Macken, who has moved onto Crystal Palace. Shiiiitttteeeehhhh, only have ex shit 'ed Robbie Fowler up front, so he see's 27yr old Benty as a good foil for the hit man. Marcus scored six goals in 37 starts last season, and will be keen to know of his future with Moyesy certainly adding new striking power to his Euro bound squad.

Blue Kipper says:

15. Tony Hibbert - Contract Up June 2006

 

The Hibbert has been offered a two year extension to his existing deal. If he accepts it, his new deal would end June 2008. (20/05/05)

Blue Kipper says: NO KIPPERS

14. Mikel Arteta - Loan Contract Up June 2005

It looks like Mikky Arteta is about to put pen to paper, and sign a contract with the Blues. Mikky's club Real Sociedad have announced that a deal is hours away. Mikky was stalling, on signing the deal as the Blues were not happy at his excessive wage demands, which are believed to be in the region of £33k a week. Arteta has not travelled to Korea with Real, and is expected in sunny Merseyside any day now.

Real Sociedad Spokesman says: "Everton asked him to travel as soon as possible to Liverpool to pass a medical and conclude the deal."

Bully says: "Talks with both Real Sociedad and Mikel Arteta have gone well and are continuing. We are hopeful of reaching a satisfactory conclusion within the next 48 hours or so." (13/07/05)

Moyesy has admitted for the first time that Mikkys wage demands are far in excess than the Blues are willing to pay. Mikky is staying on in Spain with Real Sociedad, the club to which he is contracted to. Moyesy however is not giving up the ghost, and is still hopeful something can be sorted before the start of the season.

Moyesy says: " We told him at the end of last season we would like to bring him here but at the moment, the demands are a bit excessive. We have continued to speak throughout the summer period and hopefully he is one player we can move on before the start of the season."

Mikky says: "It would be a lack of respect to say that I am disappointed to return to Real Sociedad. I myself chose to come here a year ago and I still belong to the club, although there was a period when I suffered because I was not playing as much as I would have liked. At the moment I am a Real Sociedad player and I still have three years on my contract with the club. I will carry on here unless something that is good both for me and for the club happens. We will have to see what happens." (05/07/05)

The plot thickens in the Mikky Arteta saga, with his agent now claiming, that Mikky will not be at Bellefield come Friday when the squad re-assembles. Negotiations are still on going, but Mikky has decided to have an extended break until his contract wrangle is sorted out. Easy on the Paella Mikky.

Inaki Ibanez says: "We will have further meetings with Everton, but nothing is scheduled at present. It could be in the next day, it could be in a week - so I cannot say yet whether Mikel will be back with Everton in time for the start of pre-season training on Friday. But we will have more talks." (29/06/05)

Mikky has now made it clear to Everton that he will not come on the "cheap". This doesn't sound too good.

Mikky says: "Everton's latest offer is not what I'm looking for. I want to feel more valued by the club. If I take the deal that Everton are offering, I would be earning less than I would in Spain. If Everton are going to play in the Champions League, they have a certain amount of money coming in guaranteed so they should make an effort with players' contracts. Right now I feel closer to starting pre-season training with Sociedad than I do starting training with Everton." (28/06/05)

Mikky's agent has come out and said that Mikky wants to stay at Everton. Good! Now get on with it.

Inaki Ibanez, Arteta’s agent says: “We are in ongoing talks with officials at Everton Football Club. Mikel’s top priority is to become an Everton player on a permanent basis. He very much enjoyed his time at Everton last season and is keen to extend his stay.” (27/06/05)

Don't laugh at this one, but strong rumours are circulating the city, that Everton's on loan midfielder is attracting interest off the shite. Rafael Beanneathus is said to be preparing a bid to take Mikky to Analfield, from under the noses of the Blues. Mikky's contract negotiations have stalled of late, and with the transfer clock ticking down, something has to give soon. (26/06/05)

Latest is that both parties are still talking. Must be like one of those all nighters at the House of Lords where on fella is talking and the rest are asleep. (23/06/05)

When pressed on the delay in the Arteta transfer, Alan Irvine says: 'It's ongoing. I want him too.' (14/06/05)

The deal is not yet dead. Everton have made an offer to Real Sociedad and they are having a think about it.

Jose Astiazaran says: "Everton have made us an offer for the possible signing of the player and we are studying it."(10/06/05)

Real Sociedad president Jose Luis Astiazaran has flown to Merseyside to sort out the transfer mess. Everton are believed to be willing to stump up £2.8m, but it is the way the payment is made is causing the problem. A small matter of what Mikky gets paid is also to be sorted.
Jose Astiazaran says: "An accord still does not exist but the subject is on its way." What? (08/05/06)

"El Everton no ejerció la opción de compra sobre Arteta." This is the headline in Marca, the Spanish sports daily. It's not good reading. For those who don't read spanish the headline says that Everton have not exercised their option to buy Arteta. The article says that club and player have failed to reach an agreement on personal terms and that Arteta will return to Real Sociedad. (Thanks to our Spanish Toffee, Paul Whelan for this.)

Our contacts nearer home say both Moyes and Arteta want the deal done, but the agent and financial negotiators at both clubs are trying to get the best deal. It's a worry. (01/06/05)

Our Tater should tie up his £2.6m deal early next week. (20/05/05)

If Mikky has his way he will stay at Everton. He has told us 100 times.

Mikky says:" I'm very happy to be here. I've said 100 times already. We'll see what happens. Everything about Everton wants me to stay. The people, the spirit, the nice atmosphere.

We have a great chance next season to play in the Champions League, if we can get through the qualifying round, which is the best competition you can find. I think it's a great club and they are looking to do something nice and grow in the next three or four years. I would like to be involved in this new project." (13/05/05)

Moyesy is keen to tie up 'Our Tater' for next season, but he may have a fight on his hands. Espanyol & Rangers are interested in him. Indeed the Spanish team have had a word with his agent.

Espanyol coach Miguel Angel Lotina says: "If we want a great European team we will need Mikel."

Real Sociedad president Jose Luis Astiazaran says: "I can only say that Everton have priority by the terms of the loan."

Mikky says: "I am happy at Everton, but a lot depends on Real Sociedad." (10/05/05)

After his top notch performance and fantastic goal against Palace yesterday, Everton would be dumb not to give him a contract. (11/04/05)

Mikky has done his chances a world of good, with praise from the manager and also a Star man award at the WBA game. (06/04/05)

Came on as a late sub in the last two games for Everton. In the short time he has been on the pitch, he has looked useful, but it's still early days. (14/02/05)

Blue Kipper says: NO KIPPERS

13. Guillaume Plessis - Six Month Contract Up June 2005

Everton has released the midfield player. (17/05/05)

Not started a game yet, but will want to impress, so that he can win a long contract. (14/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

12. Kevin Kilbane - Contract Up June 2005

Killa has signed a new 3 year contract keeping him at the clun until the summer of 2008.(10/06/05)

Killa says: "I'm sure there will be money made available to the manager and I'm sure there will be new faces coming in. When you're playing in European competitions you need a bigger squad and you need players that are readily available on Saturday and Wednesday every week. With the size of the squad right now, that's not going to be achievable as well as we hope next season." (14/05/05)

Has been a great signing for Moyesy. Although not having as good a season as last season, he should get a new contract offer. (06/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

11. Lee Carsley - Contract Up June 2006

Cars has been offered a one year deal. If he accepts it, his new deal would end June 2007. (20/05/05)

Rumours are flying about that he is one of the senior players, who have been offered a one year extension to his contract. (11/04/05)

Harry hill has been Mr Consistency this season. He has done enough for a new contract, but the club will wait until as late as possible to offer him a new contract. (09/2/05)

Blue Kipper says: NO KIPPERS

10. David Weir - Contract Up June 2005

Davie has signed a new one year deal. (10/06/05)

With his own mind made up, Davie has urged his defensive team mates to stay.
Davie says: "I am glad to stay. I just hope Stubbsy and Sandro stay. If they go I'll miss them." (08/06/05)

Davie Weir looks like he will be signing a one year deal.

Davie says: "I'm happy to sign a one-year deal instead of two. I want to be there to help Everton do well next season. A lot of people said we'd go down and it was nice to prove them wrong. Next year will be tough." (05/06/05)

Although he has had a better offer from another club, The pull of Europe at a club he loves is pulling at his heart strings.

Davie says: “I’d love to get something sorted out. I’d love to stay at the club. From the minute I came here I’ve enjoyed it and nothing’s changed. Hopefully it can be sorted out but if it doesn’t get sorted out then we can all leave with our heads held high. In an ideal world I’d have done it six months ago but that’s just the way football operates now. We’ll take it as it comes but I’m more than happy to stay here." (19/05/05)

Davie has been offered a new one year contract at only half his current salary. He's not happy. Weir who is 35 tomorrow, has been told that Leeds United will take him on a two-year contract which has better basic terms.

Davie says: "I think there were about seven of us whose contracts run out at the end of this season. Nigel Martyn, the goalkeeper, is the only one to have signed a new deal. The others, I believe, are in the same boat as myself. I can’t speak for them, but I can for myself. I’m not happy with what they’ve offered, to be honest. I think I deserve better. Throughout my career, including my time at Everton, I’ve always turned up, ready to play, ready to do everything I can.

More than anything, including the money, there’s a principle to be considered here. Making that kind of offer is questioning your entire motivation. It’s saying, ‘We’re not sure about your commitment’, and that’s not reasonable, considering all that’s gone before. The manager has said he is keen to keep the majority of the boys who have done so well so we’ll see what happens. But, like everybody else, I can’t wait forever. I have to know what I’m going to be doing next season, what kind of living I’m going to be making.

I know through an intermediary that Leeds will give me two years, which is an obvious attraction. I’m 35 tomorrow, but I feel as good as ever. I know that’s a cliche among ageing players, but it’s absolutely true, because I know on the pitch that nothing has changed. The only signs you get are the night after a game and the next morning, when you’re a little more tired, a little stiffer, than before. But from game to game, while actually playing, there’s no difference." (09/05/05)

Leeds have made an enquiry about David Weir and Gary Naysmith.

Davey's agent Jim McArthur says: "David has had an offer from Everton he's thinking about. Both players would be interested in Leeds. They are a big club, but other clubs have also been asking about them." (19/04/05)

So far this season he has took his chance. When Yobo was injured at the start of the season, Davie came into the side and has played that well that he has kept his place. We will see soon enough if he has done enough for a new contract. (09/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

9. Iain Turner - Contract Up June 2005

Scots keeper Iain Turner has signed a new deal that ties him to the club till the Summer of 2009. The 21 yr old put pen to paper today, and Moyesy will be delighted to sign up, the Scottish U21 No.1. Me thinks Iain will get his chance this season, with Wrighty on his way before too long, as Moyesy looks to the future.

Iain says: "I have signed a three year extension to my contract. It is great to be offered a new contract by any club. But when it is a club the size of Everton with such a great fanbase it is good. Hopefully I can come into the first team and do a job.

My ambition is to be Everton and Scotland’s number one. But with keepers it is about trying to get your chance." (22/06/05)

Gone on Loan to Doncaster, but only to give him first team games.

We expect a contract offer to be offered to Iain. He's one for the future. (13/02/05)

Blue Kipper says: No Kippers

7. Alan Stubbs - Contract Up June 2005

Alan Stubbs has claimed that Everton wanted to keep a clause in his contract regarding his testicular cancer, even though it has been in remission for the last few years. Everton have admitted there was such a clause in his old contract, but that they were willing to remove it from his new one year deal if he agreed to undergo a medical. They say Stubbs was holding out for a 2 year contract. Everton's policy is to give players over 30 years of age a one year only deal. (20/08/05)

Stubbs signed a one year contract with Sunderland. Not a two contract he was after with Everton. Very strange. If it's not the money, it must be the attraction of fighting a relegation battle. (04/08/05)

Never returned to training on Friday, and Moyesy and his skipper have said their goodbyes. Alan is interesting Villa, and Wolves. (02/07/05)

Bluekipper.com have it on good authourity that Club Skipper Alan Stubbbs is about to put pen to paper on a two year deal with Aston Villa. The free agent has not been happy with the fare on offer at Goodison, and he has been hanging out for a better contract. We have now heard David O'Leary is happy to pay the boyhood Blue what he wants, to join him at Villa Park. (22/05/06)

The Everton skipper is thought to have been offered a two year deal with Wigan on better money than the Everton one year deal. So he has a choice. Lead his boyhood team into the Champions League or struggle with Wigan. (08/06/05)

With Stubbsy a free agent at the end of the season, Bolton have hinted again that they are interested. Alan had 6 seasons at Notlob. Whats that about never going back? (07/04/05)

We have heard that Blackburn and Bolton have enquired about the Everton Skipper. With Everton only offering Stubbsy a one year contract which runs out at the end of the season, and he wants 2 years. Funnier things have happened at sea. (22/01/05)

Blue Kipper says:

Signed For Sunderland

6. Eddy Bosnar - Contract Up June 2005

The Everton reserve of last season, has today signed for Dinamo Zagreb. Eddy was brought in last season as cover, and Moyesy was true to his word, and only kept him the one season. He will sign for Zagreb in a three year deal. Eddy will best be remembered for his stunning strike against the shite in the Mini Derby. (07/07/05)

The Aussie has been released. (17/05/05)

Eddy is back with Everton and playing for the reserves. (25/03/05)

Big Eddy will have a weeks trial with Norwegian side, Valerenga. If both parties are happy then the 24-year-old will leave the Toffees. Even with such a small squad, Moyesy has not had Bosnar in the first team squad this season. (19/01/05)

Blue Kipper says:

5. Joseph Yobo - Contract Up June 2007

It is no secret that Newcastle would like Joey, but the bluekipper.com player of the season would want his bumps feeling if he went there. Reports say Everton have rejected a bid from the barcodes for the Nigerian International in January 2005.

Moyesy said in Dec 04: "There is a not a chance of Joseph leaving and despite not being in the team he has shown a terrific attitude and he understands the situation. He was in the team at the start of the season but then picked up a slight injury and those who have taken their chance have seized his place. But there will be chances for Joseph to take as well. There will be injuries and suspensions at some point and he has a big part to play here at Everton, not only this season but in the future as well. He is a good young player and a player I want at Everton for a long time. He is part of what we are trying to do at Everton and we want more players of Joseph's quality at the club." (12/02/05)

Blue Kipper says: NO KIPPERS

4. Leon Osman - Contract Up June 2005

Leon has signed a new contract 4 year contract keeping him at the club until 2009.(10/06/05)

It seems Everton have offered Leon a contract, but on a smaller wage than the rest of the senior squad. He is keen to sign for Everton, but wants a bigger increase. (11/04/05)

Rumours are flying about that Portsmouth are interested in Ossie. We are not surprised, he was given a chance at the start of the season and has taken it. Has been one of Everton's stars this season. A great football who has the knack of getting forward and scoring goals. As he came through the ranks, he is on a relatively low wage compared to the other first team squad. We hope Everton don't loose him by offering a poor contract. (12/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

3. Gary Naysmith - Contract Up June 2005

Gary has signed a new 3 year contract. (10/06/05)

Fulham, Glasgow Rangers & Leeds are all monitoring the situation. We expect Nace to reject a contract and move on. (19/05/05)

Leeds have made an enquiry about David Weir and Gary Naysmith.

Gary's agent Jim McArthur says: "Leeds would be interested but I don't know how far it's going to go and it depends on any offers they receive from Everton. Gary has rejected one offer and that has now been withdrawn." (19/04/05)

With no more talks planned and the last time they spoke was October 2004, Naysmith's agent, Jim McArthur has given up the ghost.

Jim says: "It looks certain that Gary will leave. We have had no encouragement from his present club, Everton."

C.E.O. Big Keith Wyness says: "Discussions were held earlier in the season with Gary and his agent. An agreement couldn't be reached at the time and it was decided to wait until the end of the season to review the situation, so there is no further news either way." (21/03/05)

Since loosing his place in the first team, Nace has been injured for Scotland, and had on/off contract talks with Everton. Celtic were said to be interested in taking him back to Scotland. Martin O'Neill could persuade him to join the Glasgow club in Summer 2005.

Nace says: "The Celtic thing was just paper talk." (12/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

2. Steve Watson - Contract Up June 2005

Steve Watson has sent a message to thank the fans. He hopes to be at Goodison to support the boys in the Champions League.

Wato says: “I just want to thank everyone connected with the club, especially the supporters. I had a fantastic five years at Everton and I really enjoyed my time there.  It’s a special club and it was a difficult decision to leave. I was disappointed in the way my time at Everton ended but it certainly won’t cast a shadow over my spell there. They were five of the best years of my career and hopefully I’ll get a nice welcome when West Brom come to Goodison during the new season. I’ll be keeping an eye out for Everton’s results and I will be coming back to Goodison to watch the lads whenever I can - hopefully in the Champions League.” (11/07/05)

Watto and The Blues have parted company. Bryan Robson at West Brom has signed him on a 3 year deal. (05/07/05)

Wato has had a chat with Moyesy. The boss reiterated that he wants him to stay, but the deal is only for a year. Stevie is now going to talk to WBA, then decide this week what to do. (23/06/05)

Steve Watson wants to have one more crack at Moyesy before deciding whether or not to join Super Kev at West Brom. Watto who is not best pleased with the deal offered to him, still wants to remain at the Blues, and is keen to set up a meeting with the boss, to sort out his contract.

Steve says: "I haven't given up hope of staying at Everton, but I'm flattered by Albion's interest. I hope I can have another talk with David Moyes when I get back. I don't know what I shall be doing next and I've come away for a couple of days to relax and think about it. I've thought about nothing else recently but have not made any firm decisions. I'm aware of Bryan Robson's interest and it's the second time he's tried to sign me dating back to his Middlesbrough days. Joining Albion is a move that would interest me if I am to leave Everton." (16/06/05)

It's been reported that Steve has been offered a chance to join W.B.A. (13/06/05)

Sunderland, Blackburn, Wigan, and Leeds and are all thought to be interested. Wato will decide when he is back from holiday next week. (08/06/05)

Wato has been out of the side most of the season with injuries or sitting on the bench. He has started only 7 games this season. (12/02/05)

Blue Kipper says:

Signed For WBA

1. Duncan Ferguson - Contract Up June 2005

When Dunc returns from his Caribbean holiday, he will tell Everton he will stay for another year. (08/06/05)

From Dunc's reaction at the end of the Palace game when he stayed on the pitch at the final whistle to applaud the fans and give record breaker, Jimmy Vaughan a bear hug, it would seem that Duncan is happy with the one year extension he's been offered. (11/04/05)

Big Dunc has been Everton's super sub this season coming on and scoring vital goals to keep us in the Champions League spot. He is a hero with the fans. BUT he is 33, Everton's top earner on a reported £30,000-a-week and has had a hate/hate relationship with Moyesy. Plus he has been sent off 7 times in his Everton career. Everton will have to decide if they offer him a one year extension and Big Dunc will decide if he accepts a massive pay cut or joins Big Joe Royle at Ipswich or retire. (12/02/05).

Blue Kipper says: