Conor Coady has now shared a farewell message to Everton fans as he is set to return to parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Indeed, the 30-year-old has spent the season on loan at Goodison Park from Wolves, but the Blues have decided against the option of making the move a permanent one.
A pre-agreed price of £4.5m was set should Everton recruit the England international on a permanent basis, but the club have now confirmed that Coady will return to his parent club.
Ahead of returning to Molyneux, the defender has since taken to Instagram to thank Everton and the fans, stating it has ‘been a pleasure’.
Coady posted: “It’s been a pleasure to play for you toffees. Thank you UTFT.”
The 30-year-old made 24 Premier League appearences this season, scoring once for the Blues, though the defender fell out of favour following the sacking of Frank Lampard.
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Indeed, out of the 18 games following Sean Dyche’s appointment, Coady played in just six of them, so perhaps it is not surprising that the Everton boss has decided against making the move permanent.
However, with a reasonable price agreed for a player of such experience, fans will now hope that there will be an alternative lined up for Conor Coady this summer as a defensive rebuild is much needed.
Coady is joined by Vinagre who also departs Everton
Also returning to their parent club is Portuguese right-back Ruben Vinagre, who played just four games in all competitions for Everton and returns to Sporting CP.
Confirming both departures via the official Everton website, Director of Football Kevin Thelwell said: “We want to sincerely thank Conor and Rúben for their impeccable professionalism and valuable contributions both on and off the pitch during their time with the Club.
We wish both players the best in their futures.”
With two defensive departures now confirmed, Sean Dyche will now be looking to recruit players to suit his style as the transfer season begins.