I can't remember the last time we outbid a PL club* it's not our culture to get involved in player auctions. It seems we are 3rd behind Everton and Ipswich although why he would choose them over us I don't know.

* I know other clubs are linked but this is mainly click bait. My guess is we have made a bid and have already moved on. The player should be busting a gut to want to come to us.

One more point

Superficially Everton are more prestigious, have a new state of the art ground being built and are often seen as a 'sleeping giant' (rightly or wrongly). Especially when compared to the Ageing Selhurst. Add to that that the wages on offer are more likley to be higher, and it can be a very attractive proposition.

On the pitch is where we need to be selling our benefits. We have proven career progression, we have (under GS at least) showed that representing England is a possibility, we are (right now) proven to be building an exciting, young project, with an exciting young manager - (that might not be true next year!!)

A move to a new club is a very difficult one for many young players. It all really depends on their priorities - and their advisors.

"It was a Team effort, I guess it took all players working together to lose this one"

Sadly going to Everton for £16m. I'm gutted, the lad is pure quality and definitely worth more then £16m in today's market. We should of outbid them with the Olise money. Scored quite a few goals from the wing last season.

[Link]

Now click-bait are saying Everton are not favourites to sign him & L'pool have joined in . . . [Link]

What a palaver.

This operation, will make the 'Charge Of The Light Brigade' seem like a simple military exercise.

I have every confidence that Dougie has been all over this. What happens will happen. He looks good on youtube. But that is nothing. What counts is Dougie. If we get him, he will be good.

What a rare and happy place we find ourselves Nicholas. Long may our new found ways continue.