Everton would be foolish to allow Leighton Baines to leave for MLS on a free

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Reports this week in The Sun have sensationally claimed that Everton left-back Leighton Baines is set to move to Major League Soccer this summer on a free transfer.

The report is likely to simply be a rumour, but regardless, the Toffees should not be looking to ship off the club legend after more than a decade at Goodison Park.

The England international recently endured an injury-hit season, missing 15 matches due to a calf injury, yet is still an integral part of the squad.

At 33 years of age, there is no doubt that Baines’ best years are behind him. But the defender is still an assured presence at the back while also serving as a superb leader and ambassador for Everton.

Baines celebrated his 400th Everton match in April, a laudable achievement for a true servant of the club.

The left-back has constantly handled himself with utter class during his spell at Everton and has an unquestionable love for the club, notably speaking out on the lack of team chemistry during Roberto Martinez’s reign.

And even during the low points of Everton’s disappointing 2017/18 season, Baines has maintained his excellent level of desire, determination, and loyalty.

His current contract runs until the summer of 2019, and the Merseyside club would be misguided if they let the left back depart before that date. Baines has become synonymous with Everton over the past 11 years, and can clearly still play at football’s highest level.

If he was to depart to the far weaker American league for a retirement send-off, it would represent a grave mistake for both player and club.

Leighton Baines must resist interest from Major League Soccer and remain at Goodison Park, where has achieved legendary status and still has a Premier League future.