Derby want to sign Everton midfielder as Moyes seeks first refusal
David Moyes is set to oversee an overhaul at Everton this summer.
The Scottish manager has had a huge impact since he returned to Goodison Park to replace Sean Dyche in January.
The 62-year-old is expected to be backed heavily by the Friedkin Group as he seeks to take the Blues to the next level and away from the relegation battles that have become commonplace in recent years.
Moyes plans for Armstrong future at Everton
Blues loanee Harrison Armstrong impressed on loan at Derby, making 15 appearances for the Pride Park outfit in the Championship.
A report from Alan Nixon, via his Patreon (11 May) claims that Moyes wants the first refusal on a potential exit for the 18-year-old amid strong interest from the Rams and Blackburn.
It states that the Scotsman will monitor Armstrong in pre-season and he could save the Blues a significant sum in the transfer window if he can impress the former West Ham boss.
Armstrong can thrive at Everton
The Toffees could give Armstrong a chance to star among the senior team if he can forge his way into Moyes’ plans with an impressive pre-season.
The young maestro has made three appearances for the Blues’ first team already and will hope to get more chances in the new campaign.
| Stats (Championship) | Armstrong |
| Matches | 15 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Minutes played | 1,105 |
The Merseysiders have failed to make the most of their academy in the last few years and the England Under-18 star could signal a significant shift from the L4 outfit if he is handed an opportunity in the top-flight.
Utilising their academy is definitely something that Moyes and Co could improve on and giving Armstrong a shot would be the first step in an increased reliance on their youngsters and may prove to be a turning point.
Alternatively, he could be sent on loan if the Blues want him to play regularly to continue his development, as he is likely to make sporadic appearances if he sticks around the senior setup next season.
One thing is for sure, the Toffees cannot sanction a permanent exit, he is far too promising and the extra funds would not be worth losing a potentially brilliant player.