Everton’s American ownership group, TFG, could provoke a fierce backlash from supporters if it approves Armstrong’s transfer to Nottingham Forest.
Even the suggestion that Everton might allow Armstrong to leave has generated immediate shock and frustration among fans. The teenager is widely viewed as the club’s finest academy prospect in years and an important part of its future.
There is currently no sign that Everton intends to accept a bid. However, Forest’s interest is genuine, and securing the player would represent a major success for the club.
Such a decision could also raise serious doubts about the level of TFG’s long-term ambitions.
Manager Moyes has already expressed frustration over Everton’s limited transfer business during the summer window.
Following Wednesday’s 4-0 Carabao Cup victory away to Championship side Preston, Moyes made it clear that his squad still required additional signings.
He had expected TFG to support him by funding more new arrivals.
Since then, key playmaker Iliman Ndiaye has been strongly connected with a move to Manchester City, while Forest is now preparing to challenge Everton’s determination to retain Armstrong.
It would be fascinating to see how Moyes responded to, or justified, Armstrong’s departure. Approving the move would seem to contradict his publicly stated goal of strengthening the squad.
Everton and its supporters may reluctantly understand losing leading players to a club such as Manchester City. However, watching their most exciting youngster join Nottingham Forest, a team Everton would hope to compete with or finish ahead of, could prove far more difficult to accept.
Everton’s response to Forest’s pursuit of Armstrong, who has already impressed this season, could therefore become a pivotal test for both TFG and Moyes.
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