Transfer Talk: Pienaar insists he is happy to stay at Goodison Park

Steven Pienaar, the Everton midfielder who has been linked with a summer move away from Goodison Park, has said he would like to remain on Merseyside.

The 28-year-old, who scored seven goals in 38 games last season, has just 10 months remaining on his contract, provoking speculation that his three-year stay at Everton may be nearing an end.

"I've never said that I want to leave," the South African, who has been linked with Spurs, Arsenal and Liverpool, said. "I love playing for Everton. I'm happy to sign a new one [contract], but at my age it has to be fair and right."

Italy international Alberto Aquilani is also set to remain on Merseyside, despite a troubled first year at Liverpool. "Aquilani will remain in England," the player's agent, Franco Zavaglia, said. "He's respected by Roy Hodgson and this year will be his year of consecration at the club."

Sunderland defender Matt Kilgallon has joined Middlesbrough on loan until the end of the season. "He gives us extra height as well as experience," said Middlesbrough manager, Gordon Strachan, of the 26-year-old.