Everton player confirms he wants to play elsewhere, names ideal club
Everton have set their sights on making major additions this summer, but some players have already made up their minds to leave the club.
The Toffees are in for a big summer transfer window, as David Moyes aims to significantly strengthen his squad under the supervision of The Friedkin Group.
With 13 first-team players running out of their contracts at the end of the season, Everton have lots of work to do in the transfer market.
Unfortunately for the Merseyside-based club, some contracted players are also keen to seek a transfer exit ahead of next season, with Harrison Armstrong being one of them.
Armstrong makes Everton transfer request
Armstrong is one of the most highly-rated youngsters at Everton, having made his first-team debut in the 4-0 Premier League defeat against Tottenham in August.
After amassing six appearances for Everton, the 18-year-old joined Derby on loan until the end of the season in the winter transfer window to earn more first-team experience.
The midfielder has since established himself as a key player for the Rams, making 14 appearances in the Championship.
Although he only has one goal to show for his appearances, Armstrong has played a key role in Derby moving away from the relegation zone in recent weeks.
| Matches | Starts | Minutes | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards |
| 14 | 11 | 1016′ | 1 | 0 | 3 |
With only one game left to play, John Eustace’s side sit three places above the drop zone, although they are only separated from 22nd-placed Hull City by one point.
As Armstrong’s loan stint draws to a close, he has expressed his desire to return to Pride Park for another spell 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
Considering how popular Armstrong is at Everton, it would not be a surprise if Moyes reassessed him during pre-season before making a decision on him.
It is not beyond the realms of possibility that the youngster stays with the Everton squad amid a summer overhaul.
However, a re-joining Derby on a season-long loan will certainly stand the midfielder in good stead for his future.
Although that would only be possible if the Rams avoid relegation from the Championship.
Eustace and Co. face Stoke City at home in their final game of the season next Saturday, 3 May.