Football fans, buckle up! A major Championship transfer saga is drawing to a close, and it’s a twist for Derby County. Everton’s promising young talent, Harrison Armstrong, who impressed with crucial assists, appears set for a new destination. Will his arrival propel his new club even further up the league table this season?

The highly anticipated transfer saga involving Everton’s burgeoning talent, Harrison Armstrong, appears to be nearing its conclusion, with Preston North End reportedly poised to secure his services. This development comes as a blow to Derby County, who were keen on bringing the promising 18-year-old midfielder back to Pride Park for another loan spell, highlighting the competitive nature of the EFL Championship transfer market.

Armstrong has spent his entire youth career within the esteemed ranks of Everton FC, a testament to his early potential. He made his senior Premier League debut last August against Tottenham Hotspur, swiftly establishing himself within the first-team setup. His impressive run of starting the final 12 games of the season played a crucial role in Everton’s successful campaign to secure Championship survival, losing only three times during that period.

Demonstrating his continued development, Harrison Armstrong has once again been included in Everton’s Premier League squads this season. Crucially, he showcased his exceptional form by playing all 90 minutes and providing both assists in Everton’s commanding 2-0 victory over Mansfield Town in the EFL Cup. This performance underscored his creative capabilities and readiness for regular senior football.

For Preston North End, the imminent arrival of a player of Armstrong’s calibre represents a significant coup. The Lilywhites have enjoyed an admirable start to their season, buoyed by strong performances against recently relegated sides. His dynamic midfield presence and proven ability to create opportunities are expected to further solidify their strong position and inject an additional layer of attacking impetus.

Derby County’s interest in re-signing Armstrong was well-documented, with reports earlier this month suggesting their keenness to facilitate another loan stint. However, despite their efforts, it seems Preston North End have successfully navigated the complexities of the transfer negotiations, ultimately winning the race for the in-demand midfielder.

Many Everton FC supporters believe that Armstrong merits more first-team opportunities at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. However, manager David Moyes has reportedly opted for a loan move to one of his former clubs, seeing it as the optimal pathway for the young midfielder’s continued growth and development this term. This strategic decision aims to provide him with consistent competitive action.

Armstrong’s previous season in the Championship demonstrated he was far from out of place in a side that was among the form teams towards the end of the campaign. His glimpses of quality affirmed his status as a player on the periphery of a Premier League club at a remarkably young age. Preston North End fans will undoubtedly be excited to witness his talents at Deepdale, especially with his recent impressive performance against Mansfield Town fresh in their minds, promising an exhilarating addition to their squad for the remainder of the EFL Championship season.