Everton are reportedly interested in Stoke City winger Marko Arnautovic
Stoke City chairman Peter Coates has confirmed to the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, which was broadcast on TalkSPORT on July 27th, that he is optimistic that Marko Arnautovic will remain at the Bet365 Stadium this season.
Arnautovic has been strongly linked with a move to Everton in recent times by Sky Sports.
Everton were reportedly willing to meet Arnautovic’s release clause, but Stoke believe they will be able to keep him.
“He’s an exceptional talent,” Coates said. “He was our leading goalscoring last year. We’re naturally keen to keep him, and we think that will happen.”
Stoke are now preparing to offer Arnautovic a new contract, which will make him one of their top earners.
The Potters are believed to be willing to pay the Austrian international £80,000-a-week to ensure that he stays.
Arnautovic was one of Stoke’s top performances last season, with his displays causing defences across the division problems.
The skilful winger was a constant threat, and he plays an important role in Mark Hughes’ team.
Stoke finished last season in ninth place in the Premier League table, two positions above Everton.
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