Everton were upset with the timing of Mikel Arteta's transfer demand to get his move to Arsenal last week.
The Liverpool Echo says Everton sources said they were furious at the late timing of the 29-year-old's request to leave, which meant David Moyes had no time for use some of the fee to sign a replacement.
But Arteta, who said Arsenal made their interest in him known a few days before his dramatic exit, claimed the deal was the "best option" for himself and Everton.
He said: "We knew a few days before they had interest in me and then everything happened last day and last minute.
"It's true I met the manager and had five minutes with him and said it's a great opportunity for me to play in the Champions League and I think the club is in a situation where they need to sell someone.
"The gaffer was fine. He said to me 'Miky I don't want to lose you and appreciate everything you have done for me. I cannot stop you going'."
