David Moyes is close to agreeing a new contract with Everton, despite "mischievous" reports to the contrary.

Sunday newspapers carred reports that talks had broken down between the Toffees manager and chairman Bill Kenwright.

Moyes' current deal expires next year but both manager and chairman insist their focus is on finishing fourth this season rather than Moyes' own future.

Kenwright told the Liverpool Echo: "The situation is exactly as David has indicated.

"He and I simply have not had a moment to sit down and finalise his contract although we have both acknowledged to each other on several occasions that we must - and we will.

"Our many daily conversations right now are about the last game, the next game and the next few weeks.

"This is one of the most exciting periods in our club's recent history and any mischievous reports that get in the way of that are not welcome."

Moyes' side are enjoying an impressive season, sitting fourth in the Barclays Premier League and in the last 16 of the UEFA Cup. They also reached the semi-finals of the Carling Cup earlier in the campaign.

Beating Pompey kept the Toffees ahead of arch rivals Liverpool in the race for the fourth Champions League spot.

Moyes told the club's official website: "We've not spoken about a new contract, although we are due to in the future.

"I am not worried because I am aware of my ability to manage and if you ask the chairman and the board my understanding would be that they want me here.

"I get on well with my chairman and the board and I think we will talk at the end of the season.

"In time we will get it sorted but I don't want anything to ruin the focus of what we have got at the club at the moment."

Moyes took charge following the sacking of Walter Smith with the club in relegation danger.

He has established them as a competitive force at the top end of the Premier League and they memorably pipped Liverpool to fourth in 2005.

Moyes hopes to be given the backing to make even further improvements.

He added: "There is a 'but' and that is if we are going to try to compete we are going to have to find the cash to do so.

"You may have to spend more just to keep ahead of the teams you are in front of, never mind the ones you are trying to catch."

More news from SportingLife.com