Midfielder James McCarthy has signed a new deal until 2020 at Everton, the Premier League club have announced.
The 24-year-old Republic of Ireland international, who arrived at Goodison Park from Wigan Athletic for a fee reported to be £13million in 2013, was said to be a target for Tottenham.
Manchester City were also thought to be looking at McCarthy, so the signing of a new long-term deal should bring an end to speculation surrounding his future.
I m buzzing and delighted to be committing my future long-term to Everton. said McCarthy.
I ve loved every minute I ve been here, with the fans having made me feel so welcome from day one, as well as the players and staff.
This is a brilliant club with a brilliant fanbase and what we want to try to do is bring some success here and push forward.
The gaffer is trying to build a team and a squad for the long-term and I m excited to be a part of that and to be a part of this team.
McCarthy has made 74 appearances for Everton, scoring three goals.