Everton Make Decisive Contract Call To Block January Exit: Is It The Right Move For The Club?

Fresh updates from Eastern Europe suggest Everton‘s hierarchy have taken a clear stand on Vitaliy Mykolenko’s future. According to a report by Ukraine’s Express, the Merseyside club plan to trigger a clause in the 26-year-old’s current deal.

Everton Set to Block Galatasaray Approach by Triggering Mykolenko Contract Extension

This move keeps him at Goodison Park until June 2027. This smart play helps push back the growing interest from Galatasaray. The Turkish club reportedly wanted to make a move this month. They hoped to use the Bosman ruling to their advantage. That rule allows players in the final six months of their contract to discuss a free transfer with teams abroad.

Express also makes it clear that Mykolenko isn’t looking to leave the Premier League for the Turkish Süper Lig right now. Galatasaray seem ready to start talks immediately. However, the Ukrainian defender truly believes he belongs in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

So, the left-back has shot down any talk of leaving in January. Everton bosses know his deal is set to run out this coming summer. They don’t want to lose a starter for nothing. By using the extension now, the Toffees stay in the driver’s seat. This pretty much kills off any talk of him heading to Istanbul for free.

Analysis: A Smart Move for Stability and Value

BURNLEY, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 27: Vitaliy Mykolenko of Everton arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Burnley and Everton at Turf Moor on December 27, 2025 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

Everton’s choice to keep Mykolenko around makes a lot of sense for a team that often lack depth. Letting a starting left-back walk for free would be a massive mistake in terms of his transfer value. This is a big deal since the club have had to be so careful with its money lately.

Mykolenko has turned into a steady hand in defence since joining from Dynamo Kyiv. It would be tough for the club to find someone as good without spending a fortune. So, keeping him for another year protects his price tag and gives the defence some much-needed consistency.

From the player’s side, turning down Turkey shows he has plenty of drive. At 25, Mykolenko is just hitting his best years. He clearly feels he can still hold his own at the highest level in England or another big European league.

Galatasaray can offer European games, but the Premier League is still the place to be for visibility. In the end, this extension likely leads to one of two things. Mykolenko might sign a longer deal if Everton keep moving forward. Or, the club could sell him for a decent fee down the road. For now, the left-back isn’t going anywhere. Everton fans can relax knowing their main left-back is still all-in.