EVERTON have confirmed that four players will leave the club this summer.
But Dele Alli is STAYING despite being out of contract at Goodison Park.
The midfielder, 28, has missed the entire season with injury and will see his deal expire at the end of June.
However, Alli will remain on Merseyside as he continues his long-term rehab on a groin problem, sparking hopes of a new contract once he’s fully recovered.
Director of football Kevin Thelwell said: “Dele’s contract is coming to an end, but our medical team will continue to support him while he completes the intensive rehabilitation programme he is currently undergoing following the operation he had earlier this year.
“Both Sean (Dyche) and I agree it is important we ensure Dele’s rehabilitation is not impacted by his contract situation at such a critical point in his recovery.”
Elsewhere, playmaker Andre Gomes and goalie Andy Longeran will both leave when their deals are over.
Gomes, 30, joined Everton on an initial loan from Barcelona in 2018 but ended up with just four in 144 outings.
While Lonergan, 40, joined two years ago for free from West Brom and didn’t make a single appearance at Goodison.
Thelwell said: “Everyone at the Club thanks Andre and Andy for their service and contribution to Everton.
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“Andre immersed himself in the Everton values after joining us from Barcelona in 2018 and, rightly, was a popular player with our fans.
“Andy brought vital experience to our talented group of goalkeepers. Both have been valued members of our ranks, and we wish them the very best for the future.”
Everton’s other two departures see loanees Arnaut Danjuma and Jack Harrison return to their respective parent clubs.
Big things were expected of Dutch international Danjuma, 27, when he arrived from Villarreal following a sharp spell at Spurs last season.
But the winger ended up scored once in 14 league appearances , with his last game coming in January.
As for Harrison, 27, he scored three goals in 29 games after recovering from an early injury setback.
And there’s a chance the winger ends up returning to Goodison, with Everton confirming they will hold talks with Leeds over his future once the Championship side’s play-off journey is over.
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Thelwell added: “We also thank Arnaut and Jack for their roles in the progress made by our Men’s Senior Team this season under Sean and his coaching staff.
“We will continue discussions with Leeds regarding Jack’s future in the coming weeks.”
Meanwhile, three veteran stars are set to continue for another year after playing big roles in Everton’s battle against the drop.
Midfielder Idrissa Gueye, 34, has seen an automatic one-year extension triggered on his contract.
Captain Seamus Coleman, 35, has been offered a new one-year deal until 2025.
And the same extension has also been presented to full-back Ashley Young, 38.
