Everton manager Sam Allardyce admits he is a huge fan of Jack Wilshere but has refused to comment whether he will try to sign the Arsenal midfielder.
Wilshere’s current Arsenal deal is due to expire in the summer and he is on course to leave his boyhood club for nothing.
Arsenal want Wilshere to take a pay cut in order to secure a new contract and the Gunners have reportedly already tabled their best offer for the 26-year-old.
Unless there is a dramatic change in tune from either party then Wilshere will be free to sign for a new club in the summer, but Allardyce has refused to comment whether Everton are interested.
“I can’t comment on that, you’re not supposed to be talking about that,” Allardyce told talkSPORT, via The Independent. “I’ve always admired him, oh yes.
“I’ve seen a big difference in Jack Wilshere recently, in his frame, in his body. He looks like he has really got the bit between his teeth.
“He looks a lot fitter than he was and he is leaner in his face. He looks like he’s had a real go off the field, with his diet and extra training, to overcome his injury problems and prove what a great player he is.
“Hopefully if he is over his problems, whether it’s Arsenal or another club, we all hope he has a long career ahead of him.”
Wilshere was expected to start in England’s friendly against Holland on Friday night but a slight knee injury has ruled him out.
Surprisingly, Arsenal have a significantly better win ratio in the Premier League this season when Wilshere has not started (55%) compared to when he has featured from the off (30%).
