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Everton have no plans to sell Mason Holgate in the summer, despite reported interest from the Championship.

The 22-year-old found himself firmly part of Marco Silva's plans at the start of the campaign as injuries and suspensions left the Blues a little short in defensive areas.

And that will still be the case in the future, as the ECHO understands the manager is still a fan of Holgate - despite West Bromwich Albion reportedly showing an interest in signing him permanently.

The former Barnsley man was called upon in the opening game of the 2018/19 term following a red card for Phil Jagielka , and kept his place for some weeks as injuries kept Michael Keane and Yerry Mina out of action.

However, when the former was fit again and loan signing Kurt Zouma had proven himself, Holgate lost his place in the side.

The defender was sent out on loan to West Bromwich Albion in January and has been impressing during his time with the Midlands club.

(Image: Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The on-loan Everton man has already bagged three assists in nine appearances as Darren Moore's side chase promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Now, according to the Birmingham Mail, the Baggies would be willing to test the Blues' resolve over Holgate in a permanent deal over the summer - if they were to secure promotion to the Premier League.

But it is understood any bids will be rejected as Silva still believes in the defender's future at Goodison Park.

Holgate made five Premier League appearances for Everton in the first half of this term before being sent out on loan to the Championship, with his last appearance for the Blues coming in the 3-1 defeat to West Ham in September.

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The defender was rewarded for a string of fine displays last season with a new contract in December, which runs until June 2022.