Everton are ready to rival Arsenal’s offer of a new contract to Jack Wilshere with their own big offer, as the England International nears free agency.
Arsenal and Jack Wilshere are on a contract stand-off, and according to the Mirror, Everton are readying an offer of their own for the England international to rival what the Gunners have tabled. Wilshere’s contract with Arsenal ends at the end of the season, and he will be a free agent.
Arsenal had made an offer for an extension to Wilshere a few months ago, and with the player being vocal in his desire to stay at the Emirates, it was understood that all was done. In the last few weeks, however, there are reports of a lack of progress in reaching an agreement between the club and Wilshere, meaning he could move on the free in the summer.
The main issue around the disagreement is around the wages on offer. Wilshere, currently on £110,000-a-week, has been offered £90,000 as basic salary along with massive incentives based on performances and appearances in the new deal. The player is reportedly unhappy with the offer and would like an increased package.
The primary concern in Arsenal offering a cut-package was due to Wilshere’s history with injuries, as the midfielder has spent the better part of the last three years on the treatment table. This season, however, Wilshere has proved his fitness and featured heavily for the Gunners’ since the end of November.
Everton, on the other hand, are still re-building their squad and view the England International as the ideal player to add to their team. Everton seemingly know that Wilshere is inclined emotionally, for playing with his boyhood club, Arsenal, but are ready to make a big offer for him in the summer.
Everton’s offer is set to rival that of Arsenal and offer Wilshere considerable increase on his current wages as well as a long-term contract. The move will see him link up with former Arsenal star Theo Walcott, who signed for the Merseyside club in the January window.
Everton, however, are not the only club ready to prise the England international on a free transfer. Juventus, who are on an uncertain trail in their pursuit of Emre Can, could consider Wilshere as an alternative as well as Liverpool, should they lose Can in the summer, could seek to replace the German with Wilshere.
Arsene Wenger has stated his desire for Wilshere to stay with Arsenal by signing the extension on offer. Wilshere, however, seems to be evaluating his options, and there’s a possibility he could bargain with Arsenal based on other offers on the table. Either way, if Arsenal genuinely want to retain their academy star, then they need to improve on the current terms on offer for Wilshere significantly.
