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Report: Arsenal Reject Alex Iwobi £30M Transfer Bid by Everton
August 7, 2019
Arsenal have reportedly rejected a £30 million bid from Everton for midfielder Alex Iwobi.
News of the offer came via Sky Sports News' Blake Welton, who said the Toffees are likely to come back with an increased bid for the 23-year-old before the transfer deadline closes on Thursday at 5 p.m. (BST).
The story was confirmed by BBC Sport's David Ornstein, who added that Everton are seeking to sign Iwobi in addition to Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha:
David Ornstein @bbcsport_davidAs per others, Everton £30m bid for Alex Iwobi rejected. Made to Arsenal today & knocked back. Expected to return with improved offer but likely need £40m+ to be accepted. 23yo not agitating but would go if deal agreed. #EFC interest recent & is in addition to Wilfied Zaha #CPFC
According to Paul Joyce of The Times, the Toffees are ready to make Zaha their record signing. The player is said to be pushing for the move to happen, although Palace reportedly value him in the region of £80 million.
The news about the offer for Iwobi comes after Phil Kirkbride of the Liverpool Echo reported that Everton have ended their interest in Watford midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure, having seen two bids for the Frenchman rejected already.
While they are different types of players, it would appear as though Everton have now turned their attention from Doucoure to Iwobi in an attempt to add thrust to their midfield.
BBC Sport's Jordan Elgott said he thinks the money on the table for Iwobi is already too much:
It will be interesting to see what amount Everton go up to in their efforts to sign the Arsenal man ahead of the window closing.
The team would benefit from another addition in the wide areas, with Richarlison and Bernard their current starting options. The Toffees also have former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott to call on, but he struggled for long spells of the 2018-19 season.
Iwobi made 22 starts for the Gunners last season in the Premier League and chipped in with three goals and six assists. He appeared to be making progress under manager Unai Emery, too, performing well in a number of different positions.
Arsenal journalist Layth Yousif thinks the 23-year-old may benefit from a move having struggled to progress in recent years:
Iwobi's chances at the Emirates Stadium are likely to be limited in 2019-20 season after Arsenal strengthened their attacking options.
The Gunners brought in Dani Ceballos to compete for an attacking-midfield berth, while Nicolas Pepe arrived for a club-record fee, giving Arsenal a high-class option on the flanks.
Layth @laythy29I remember covering Iwobi's goal at Goodison three days after I got back from reporting on Arsenal and him at the Nou Camp and I recall thinking he was a real prospect at 19. Hasn't really kicked on since then which is a shame but £30m for the player would be excellent business https://t.co/2jLULnPV2z
Iwobi, who has played in both roles during his time in the Gunners first team, appears to be a place down the pecking order in each of these positions.