Everton midfielder Harrison Armstrong simply can't be sold to Nottingham Forest.
After news emerged that Nottingham Forest are working on a deal to sign Everton youngster Harrison Armstrong, I just had to get some thoughts written down.
I have to caveat this all by saying of course, Everton could be looking to instantly reject an offer, but given the wording of the reporting, it does feel like this is something that hasn’t been rejected instantly.
Let’s get it right, Armstrong is the biggest talent we’ve had come through the academy since Wayne Rooney. I don’t need to go into detail on why he’s so good. You all already know that, and I’ve written about it recently.
This is about the transfer itself, and why it would be an absolute disgrace if it goes through.
Firstly, lets talk about the wording of the reporting. Not ‘Forest have made a bid’, it’s ‘Forest are working on a deal.’ That suggests that this is more than just Forest making an offer.
If an offer of just £40m arrives at the table for Armstrong, you simply have to reject it instantly. For starters, this isn’t enough. If Armstrong continues playing like he is for the whole season, he’s going to be worth a lot more than that in just a few months' time.
If this had happened at the start of the window and Everton said that they need this money or they can’t reinvest, you could understand it slightly more. But that isn’t the case, we’re just days away from the window closing.
Realistically, Everton would never be able to replace Armstrong with a similar talent for £40m. Especially not at this stage of the window.
Why are Everton entertaining this? Look, I might be wrong in suggesting that are entertaining it, but it does just feel that way, so these thoughts are based on that being true.
What is the point in football if you can’t keep hold of your academy talents who are just starting to break through. This isn’t an exciting youngster sat in the u21s. This is someone who is now an established first-team player.
There is no justification for selling Armstrong this late in the window. There is barely a justification for selling him at all. There’s even less justification for selling him for £40m.
Everton need to make a statement immediately. Tie him down to a new five-year deal and pay him what he’s worth. And this can’t be used as an excuse not to strengthen.
I don’t want to be hearing that we kept players despite interest so we’re stronger. No. Not happening. If the reaction on social media isn't enough of a reason for Everton to make the right decision, then god help them. This isn't going to go down well.
Everton, make a statement now.