When I read the headline that Sam Allardyce has been ‘dropping hints’ that Everton are going to sign Jack Wilshere in the summer, I was pretty intrigued since that sounded more than a tad disrespectful, but it turns out this isn’t the case.

Speaking ahead of Everton’s trip to Stoke this week, Allardyce was asked about the Toffees’ reported interest in Wilshere.

Reports emerged this week claiming that Everton are willing to pay the 26-year-old a big signing on bonus and wages if he moves to Merseyside in the summer.

According to the Daily Star, Allardyce’s answer dropped ‘hints’ that Everton are indeed going to sign the midfielder.

daily star 15 march
Daily Star, 15 March 2018

But, did he really?

MILAN, ITALY - MARCH 08: Jack Wilshere of Arsenal acknowledges the fans after the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 match between AC Milan and Arsenal at the San Siro on March 8, 2018 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Here’s what Big Sam actually said:

“Next season is next season. Our main aim is to have the right discussions at the right time. 

“When you’re living with a squad of 38 professionals we know players can only come with releasing some. 

“The balance of ins and outs in the summer will be determined on what we bring in.” 

Although the Everton boss doesn’t deny that his club are looking to sign Wilshere – and they probably are – he never actually mentioned the player by name. He just vaguely indicates that the Toffees will be busy in the transfer window, which you would expect.

The Star even point out as much, saying, “While the Toffees chief wouldn’t speak directly about the player, he did hint that his club will be busy again this summer.”

Wilshere has just three months left on his current Arsenal contract and with talks over a new deal having stalled, of course other clubs are going to start buzzing around.