NafisaEverton are gearing up for significant acquisitions this summer, but some players have already decided to depart the club.
The Toffees are preparing for a major summer transfer period, as David Moyes seeks to substantially bolster his roster under the guidance of The Friedkin Group.
With 13 first-team players’ contracts expiring at the season’s end, Everton face a busy transfer market.
Regrettably for the Merseyside club, certain contracted players are also eager to pursue a transfer exit before next season, with Harrison Armstrong among them.
Armstrong makes Everton transfer request
Armstrong is one of Everton’s most highly regarded young talents, having debuted for the first team in the 4-0 Premier League loss to Tottenham in August.
After accumulating six appearances for Everton, the 18-year-old moved to Derby on loan until the season’s end during the winter transfer window to gain more senior experience.
The midfielder has since become a vital component for the Rams, featuring in 14 Championship matches.
Though he has only one goal to his name, Armstrong has played a crucial role in Derby’s recent climb away from the relegation zone.
With just one match remaining, John Eustace’s team are three spots above the drop zone, though only one point separates them from 22nd-placed Hull City.
As Armstrong’s loan spell nears its conclusion, he has voiced his wish to return to Pride Park for another stint next season.
In conversation with Derby fan and author Scott Gretton (24 April), the teenager admitted that he would rather re-join the Rams for another season instead of being with Everton’s first team.
Derby to re-sign Armstrong:
Given Armstrong’s popularity at Everton, it wouldn’t be surprising if Moyes evaluated him during pre-season before finalizing a decision.
It’s not inconceivable that the young player remains with Everton’s squad amid a summer restructuring.
However, another season-long loan to Derby would undoubtedly benefit the midfielder’s development.
That possibility hinges on the Rams avoiding relegation from the Championship.
Eustace and his team face Stoke City at home in their final match of the season next Saturday, 3 May.
Nafisa
