Everton captain Seamus Coleman has confirmed that he has been offered a new contract, but the Ireland international is considering his future in Merseyside.
The Irishman admitted that “it is hard to walk away from something you love” but is in no rush to sign on the dotted line ahead of the final game of the season.
Everton Director of Football Kevin Thelwell had previously admitted that the club are determined to keep Coleman at Goodison Park for at least one more season.
His sentiment was echoed by Toffees manager Sean Dyche, who has lauded the 35-year-old’s leadership, quality, and overall impact in the dressing room.
Coleman, whose current deal runs out at the end of the season, has now confirmed that a new contract has been tabled but wants to “have a think” about his decision before putting pen to paper.
“The Club means everything to me,” Coleman told Evertontv. “I suppose I live and breathe it like everyone else. But I absolutely love this football club, I love this stadium.
“We’ve got another year here at Goodison, so I’m happy to have been offered something and I’ll have a think.
“This football club means everything to me and, as I said before when I signed my last contract, it is hard to walk away from something you love.”
Coleman joined Everton from Sligo Rovers back in 2009 for a measly £60,000, and has gone on to make a club-record 363 appearances over his 15-year association with the Toffees.
Coleman has been plagued by injuries over the past two seasons, limiting him to just 11 Premier League appearances this term.
He played the full 90 minutes as Everton picked up three points in their final home match of the season, edging relegated Sheffield United by a slender 1-0 margin.
The Toffees skipper should retain his place in the starting XI for the final game against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.