Nottingham Forest have made a formal move to acquire Everton midfielder Harrison Armstrong, tabling a package worth £40 million plus a sell-on clause as they seek to bolster their midfield before the transfer deadline. The 19-year-old, who has established himself as a key prospect in Everton's squad, remains at the centre of negotiations between the two clubs with only days remaining in the summer window.
Armstrong has featured prominently for Everton this season, making 22 first-team appearances and starting in their 2-0 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace on 27 August 2026. According to reports from the Athletic, Forest are actively negotiating with Everton over the deal rather than simply making an opening offer, signalling the seriousness of their pursuit.
The midfielder's contract with Everton runs until June 2028 after he signed a long-term extension in February 2025. Armstrong has progressed through the club's academy system and spent time on loan at Derby County and Preston North End before being reintegrated into Everton's first-team picture earlier in 2026 under manager David Moyes.
Why is Forest pursuing Armstrong now?
Nottingham Forest's interest in Armstrong is directly linked to their need for midfield reinforcements following the departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City. Forest have prioritised midfield recruitment as a key area for strengthening before the window closes, and Armstrong represents a high-potential target to fill that gap.
Will Everton accept the offer?
There are currently no clear indications that Everton will entertain Forest's proposal. The notion of selling Armstrong has provoked significant concern among the club's supporters, who regard him as their most promising home-grown prospect in years and a cornerstone of the club's future. Manager David Moyes has been vocal about his desire for additional signings this summer, making a sale of one of the club's brightest talents seemingly at odds with his stated ambitions to strengthen the squad.
The decision facing Everton's American ownership, the Friedkin Group, carries considerable weight. Accepting Forest's offer could trigger substantial backlash from supporters and would send a troubling message about the club's long-term vision, particularly given that Forest are a rival they would expect to compete with rather than supply with their best young players.
What is the timeline for a decision?
The Premier League transfer window closes on Tuesday, 1 September 2026 at 23:00 BST, leaving both clubs with limited time to reach an agreement. Any final agreement would need to be completed before the deadline, and Armstrong is currently expected to remain part of Everton's senior squad while negotiations continue.
The broader context
This pursuit of Armstrong comes amid a busy transfer window for both clubs. Everton have also faced interest from Manchester City in their main creator Iliman Ndiaye, adding further pressure on the club's ability to retain their key players. Forest, meanwhile, have been active in the market, recently closing in on a deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande and continuing to pursue other targets to strengthen their squad.
Key Facts
- Nottingham Forest have offered £40 million plus a sell-on clause for Harrison Armstrong
- Armstrong, 19, has made 22 first-team appearances for Everton and signed a contract extension until June 2028
- The transfer deadline is Tuesday, 1 September 2026 at 23:00 BST
- Everton manager David Moyes has publicly stated his desire for additional signings this summer
- Forest are seeking midfield reinforcements following Elliot Anderson's move to Manchester City
