Everton's Friedkin Group KEEP Harrison Armstrong after fan revolt

Everton have decided to KEEP 19‑year‑old midfielder Harrison Armstrong after a furious fan backlash during their 1‑1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday, 30 August 2026, prompting the Friedkin Group to scrap a previously accepted Nottingham Forest bid worth 35 million pounds plus add‑ons.

Everton view Armstrong as a vital homegrown asset whose departure would have boosted their Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) but left a gap in midfield depth. The 19‑year‑old has already featured regularly, and the club’s hierarchy stressed the need to retain promising talent amid a season of rebuilding.

Forest's £35‑£40m offer

Reports differ on the exact amount: one source cites a £35 million offer with £5 million in add‑ons, while another puts the package at £40 million plus add‑ons, meaning the deal is reported at between 35 million and 40 million pounds. The proposal also included a sell‑on clause, reflecting Forest’s belief in Armstrong’s future value.

Fans force a U‑turn

During the Bournemouth match, the Toffees’ supporters chanted “Don’t sell Armstrong, I just don’t think you understand… you’re going to have a riot on your hands”. Everton manager David Moyes said, “There’s been an offer, but you always have to consider supporters.” The Friedkin Group responded by pulling the plug on the transfer.

Nottingham Forest’s £40m offer forces Everton to consider selling Armstrong

Armstrong has amassed 21 senior appearances for Everton, starting all three league games this season and playing the full 90 minutes in a 2‑0 win over Crystal Palace, where he set up Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall’s opener. He earned the club’s Young Player of the Season award for 2025/26 and signed a contract that runs until the summer of 2028.

While the midfield remains a priority, Everton are also hunting a right back before the window closes, with Fulham’s Kenny Tete listed as one of two shortlisted options. The Toffees host Manchester United next Sunday and then face Wolves in the Carabao Cup three days later.

Nottingham Forest have not abandoned their pursuit; they describe Armstrong as “open to the move” and see him as a potential successor to Elliot Anderson. The club’s interest has intensified after the Friedkin Group’s reversal, and discussions continue despite the differing fee reports.

If the transfer window shuts without a new right‑back signing, Everton may need to explore alternative solutions, while the fate of Armstrong’s potential move remains uncertain as both clubs weigh their options.