Out of contract Crewe Alexandra striker Max Clayton has now been linked with Premier League side Everton, according to the Stoke Sentinel.

The 20-year-old is expected to join the Toffees on trial, following unsuccessful spells with Sunderland and Wolves this summer.

Crewe offered Clayton a three-year deal in November 2013 but he has chosen to explore his options elsewhere after not returning to pre-season training with the Railwaymen.

Clayton featured in a couple of friendlies for Sunderland but he failed to do enough to get a contract with the Black Cats.

Contract rebel Clayton is hoping to impress at Everton.
Contract rebel Clayton is hoping to impress at Everton.

Due to his age, Crewe will receive compensation for the departure of Clayton and this seems to be a stumbling block for clubs who are thinking of signing the Cheshire born striker.

It was thought that Sunderland had agreed a fee with the League One side but nothing materialised.

He has played 92 games for Crewe, scoring 16 times and following his spell with Sunderland, he tried his luck with Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Again, Clayton was not offered a deal and he is now hoping to impress Roberto Martinez and try and get a contract with Everton.

After making his debut in April 2011, Clayton was involved in Crewe’s promotion to League One, scoring five goals during the 2011-12 season and also playing the last ten minutes of the play-off final.

He enjoyed his best season to date in Crewe’s return to League One during the 2012-13 campaign.

Clayton scored nine times, as well as netting in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final, when The Alex ran out 2-0 winners over Southend United.

The door could still be open at Gresty Road for the striker, however after his blatant desire to leave the club, it is unlikely that the fans would accept his return.

Crewe have managed just two goals in the opening two games of the season, losing to both Fleetwood and Barnsley 2-1 and they are currently sat in 20th position.

They did however beat Barnsley 2-0 in the League Cup last Tuesday and they will be hoping to get their first league win of the season when the host Rochdale tomorrow night.