adminVitalii Mykolenko’s future at Everton is hanging in the balance.
The Ukrainian defender is approaching the end of his current deal, with his contract set to expire this summer. Although Everton have the option to extend it by an additional year, there is no guarantee The Friedkin Group will activate that clause.
For now, Mykolenko’s position has been somewhat protected by circumstance. He remains the only established senior left-back available to David Moyes, as Adam Aznou is yet to feature in the Premier League this season. But comments made by Moyes on Friday suggest that safety net may not last.
Mykolenko was absent from the 1-1 draw with Brighton due to a minor injury, paving the way for Jarrad Branthwaite to make his first Premier League start of the campaign on the left side of defence. Moyes was impressed with the England international’s display, praising his performance and expressing satisfaction at having him back in the side.
Crucially, when asked whether using a centre-back at left-back could become a regular solution, Moyes admitted he “would do it again.” That statement alone could raise concerns for Mykolenko
If Branthwaite starts again at left-back against Fulham and delivers another strong showing, Moyes may decide to stick with him in that role for the remainder of the season. Such a move would further limit Mykolenko’s opportunities to prove he deserves an extension — especially after a campaign in which he has recorded no goals or assists in 20 largely underwhelming league appearances.
There is also a financial angle to consider. While some supporters might argue Everton should trigger the one-year extension regardless, that decision would carry significant cost. Reports indicate Mykolenko earns around £58,000 per week, placing him among the club’s higher earners.
Given that he has struggled to justify that wage even as a regular starter, retaining him purely as a backup option would be difficult to defend. If Branthwaite secures the left-back spot, Everton may ultimately decide it makes more sense to part ways with Mykolenko at the end of the season.
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