Everton's ownership has reversed a decision to sell 19-year-old Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest, following significant backlash from the club's supporters.
The Friedkin Group, Everton's owners, had accepted an offer of £35 million plus £5 million in add-ons for the academy graduate. Armstrong had also been granted permission to travel to Nottingham to finalize the transfer.
However, the proposed deal was pulled after fans voiced strong opposition during and after Everton's 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday. Chants directed at the owners included, "Don't sell Armstrong, I just don't think you understand... you're going to have a riot on your hands."
Manager David Moyes acknowledged the fan sentiment in his post-match comments. "I think you always have to consider supporters," he stated. "There’s also times at clubs when people who are really powerful make difficult decisions. Not all decisions are popular. Sometimes they have to do it for different reasons."
Moyes also indicated the club's ongoing need for squad reinforcement. "There’s been an offer," he confirmed. "Apart from that I don’t think there’s much else I can say, it’s a club decision. We don’t want to lose anybody and we still need to add players to what we’ve got. I’ve been saying it for a while."
Armstrong, who has made 21 senior appearances for Everton since breaking into the first team, will remain with the club. Everton is reportedly looking to sign a right-back before the transfer window closes, with Fulham's Kenny Tete among the players being considered.