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Alex Iwobi has began "preliminary" discussions over a new contract with the Club, according to Football Insider.

The Nigerian has been a standout for the Blues this year and opened the scoring against Manchester United on Sunday.

The 26-year-old's current deal runs until the summer of 2024 and Everton are believed to be keen to tie Iwobi down long-term as a reward for his outstanding performances.

Another impressive performer in Royal Blue this season is Conor Coady, who has received high praise from Andy Gray.

The former Everton striker says the defender's arrival in the summer has transformed the Blues' fortunes so far this season.

Speaking on the Gray & Keys The Podcast, he said: "Everyone told me that Conor Coady can’t play in a four.

"He is not quick enough. He is not mobile enough. He will get caught out. That was the school of thought that followed Conor Coady.

"At Wolves he played in a three, pretty much every game he played for them. Then he came here and started in a three and Frank changed that and I am so pleased that he has and I don’t think it is a coincidence that Everton’s results have got better.

"They haven’t conceded goals. They have one of the best defences in the league, if not the best. It was a great decision and it just shows that Conor Coady can quite easily play in any back four."