According to The Sun, experienced defender Leighton Baines is ready to leave Everton this summer for the MLS.

What's the story?

Leaving the European game for the MLS has become increasingly popular in recent years, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic the latest high-profile star to switch to North America.

According to The Sun, LA Galaxy and the newly-formed Los Angeles FC have both been made aware that Baines could be available in this summer's transfer window.

And it is understood that Baines, who is valued at £9m by transfermarkt.co.uk, is seriously considering turning his back on England to continue his professional career in California.

LA Galaxy currently have Ashley Cole in their ranks, and it is being reported that the club see Baines as a potential replacement for his former England teammate.

[ad_pod ]

Baines has spent the last 11 seasons at Goodison Park, but will be 34 in December, and will see his current deal with Everton expire at the end of next season.

Is it time for Baines to move on?

There is absolutely no question that Baines has been one of the Premier League's best left-backs over the last 10 years or so.

The defender's form came close to earning him a move to Manchester United when David Moyes was in charge of the Red Devils, but he ultimately remained at Everton, and has made over 400 appearances for the Merseyside club.

A calf problem interrupted Baines' 2017-18 campaign, but he still made 29 appearances for the Toffees last term - scoring three times and registering four assists.

Everton are currently seeking a new manager, however, and it remains to be seen whether Baines fits into the plans of the incoming head coach.

At 33 years of age, Baines simply has nothing left to prove at this level, and should take the chance to end his professional career in the sunshine.