Everton reject winger’s high wage demands

Austrian winger Marko Arnautovic has signed a new contract with his current club Stoke City after a transfer to Everton broke down over the player’s astronomical wage demands.

While Arnautovic was easily the best player on a Potters side that finished in ninth-place last season, the £80,000 a week he was looking for from the Toffees was deemed to high for a player who would be a backup in the Everton setup. Media sources reported yesterday that the Blues were willing to trigger the player’s £12.5million release clause, but were unable to compromise on his wages.

This is becoming a common theme for the Blues this offseason, with players getting linked to Everton and their new-found riches as leverage for new extensions or bigger contracts. Welcome to the big League, fans.

Arnautovic primarily plays on the left wing where Kevin Mirallas is the incumbent starter. However, with the Belgian’s spotty injury and disciplinary record, there is an opportunity for a squad player to get some games. Everton currently have Mirallas, Gerard Deulofeu and Aaron Lennon pencilled in in the senior squad, with youngsters like Kieran Dowell also looking to break into the side.