Harry Watkinson, a correspondent for TEAMtalk, has reported on Twitter/X that Harrison Armstrong is looking to stay at Everton next year and prove that he has what it takes to contribute to the team rather than leave on another loan.
Armstrong made his Everton first-team debut this season and featured in six matches for the Toffees in all competitions. He went out on loan to Derby County in the January window and played 15 matches for the EFL Championship side.
The Everton midfield situation is a bit odd right now. With Idrissa Gana Gueye reportedly staying with the club for two more years, Everton still need to address Abdoulaye Doucoure's departure, and fans are clamoring for a top player to pair with Gueye in the middle of the pitch.
However, considering the lack of depth at the fullback and right wing positions, Everton should be looking to add a flexible fullback who can play on both sides and a talented right winger who can provide service to Beto or DCL before bringing in a top-notch CDM/CM. If Everton don't invest too much into the midfield, perhaps Armstrong could be an internal solution for the club.
Harrison Armstrong can be deployed anywhere in the middle third of the pitch, but while he was at Derby County, the young midfielder played deeper, and he looked comfortable in that role. Armstrong was defensively sound and still had the opportunity to make some line-breaking runs, which were a big part of his game at the youth level.
He has shown he deserves to see some game time with Everton in the FA and Carabao Cup. However, it isn't clear if he's ready for consistent Premier League minutes, and at 18, playing as many minutes as possible will help further his development.
If Everton invest in a couple of midfielders, it would be better for him to leave on loan to Derby County again or to another Championship team.
But, if the midfield is still lacking in personnel by the time August rolls around, he would still be a good option to have for cup matches and maybe some spot appearances in the Premier League. This upcoming preseason will be key to see if he's ready for a larger role.