By David Lynch, Merseyside Correspondent

4th Mar, 2023 | 8:30am

Sources: Everton put the block on 'surprise' Alex Iwobi sale

Everton won’t allow Alex Iwobi to leave the club before the close of the Turkish transfer window on Sunday, sources have told Football Insider.

Turkish outlet A Spor have claimed the midfielder is currently “unhappy” at Goodison Park and eyeing a move away at the first possible juncture.

And, with the country’s mid-season transfer window having been extended until 5 March as a result of the recent devastating earthquakes across the region, a move to the Super Lig has been touted as a potential escape route.

It has been claimed that Fenerbahce were leading the chase for the reportedly disgruntled Iwobi and that discussions were even at an “advanced stage” over an initial loan deal.

However, Everton sources have described to Football Insider any potential move for the 26-year-old this week as a “non-starter”.

Toffees boss Sean Dyche is keen not to allow his attacking midfield options to be thinned in the days ahead as he looks to coax cutting edge from elsewhere in a goal-shy team.

Iwobi has retained his place as a regular starter under Dyche, appearing in every team selected by the manager since his appointment as Frank Lampard’s successor.

In fact, the former Arsenal star has started all 25 of Everton’s Premier League matches this season among 28 appearances in all competitions.

Used mainly in central midfield but also in various attacking midfield and wide midfield roles, he has scored one goal and been one of the team’s main creators with an impressive seven league assists.

In other news, Everton in advanced talks over selling a big chunk of the club as directors face the boot.