Everton manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed that contract-talks with Leighton Baines have been put-aside for now, but insists that the Englishman will be rewarded for staying at Goodison Park this summer despite being wanted by Manchester United.
It is reported that Baines could be offered a 50% pay-rise, which will see his wage increase to £75k-a-week, which will make him the club’s highest earner.
The left-back has been wanted by United for a couple of years now and when David Moyes left Everton for The Red Devils, it was rumoured that the 29-year-old would follow, but despite the temptation, he rejected the move and stay in Merseyside.
With the transfer market now shut, Martinez is happy to just focus on Premier League games rather than transfers and contracts.
“At the moment, all it is is the games and any individual contracts or situations are put aside,” said the new Everton manager.
“The only thing that concerns me is just to make sure he’s as fit as he can be and gets in a stronger position and balances the demands of England and club level.
“That’s what I’m focused on, that his day to day is perfect.
“Everything else, behind the scenes we’re happy with the situation and we’re making sure he’s happy as well.”
He continued: “In the last two games, once the window was closed, he could concentrate on his football,” said the Spaniard.
“I could be biased and see it from my own eyes, but when we played against Chelsea, it was the best two full-backs in England playing against each other, and then he came up with that sensational role on Saturday.
“He’s in a great moment of his career. In the last two games, Leighton has been sensational, probably because he’s been able to relax and enjoy his football.
“His contribution, to be able to score goals from deadball situations is a massive strength in any team, and he’s in a moment where the next three or four years are the best in his career.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
