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James McCarthy signs new five-year deal to stay at Everton

Everton midfielder James McCarthy has ended speculation about his future by signing a five-year contract at Goodison Park.

The 24-year-old, who arrived from Wigan for £13 million in September 2013, had been linked with Tottenham and Manchester City.

Manager Roberto Martinez has insisted repeatedly, though, that the Republic of Ireland international was not for sale.

McCarthy has now committed his future to Everton until June 2020, and told the club's website: "I'm buzzing and delighted to be committing my future long-term to Everton. "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."

Everton are also looking to secure the future of Belgium forward Kevin Mirallas on a long-term contract.