Everton’s deadline for Ross Barkley could play into Tottenham’s hands.
Everton’s Ross Barkley in action
Ross Barkley has yet to let Everton know his intentions this summer and the Toffees are growing increasingly frustrated.
The BBC report the Toffees have set Barkley a deadline to sign a new deal by next weekend, or face being sold.
Barkley is out of contract next season and Everton do not wish to let his deal run down to next summer.
Tottenham Hotspur are favourites to sign the England international, with The Mirror reporting that he has been made their top summer transfer target.
Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy will be watching the developments at Everton and smiling. From his perspective it is all going to plan.
Everton’s tough stance on Barkley plays right into his hands.
The Toffees are weakening their negotiating position for the player by putting him up for sale. While they may anticipate a bidding war, realistically they are going to fall well short of the £35 million they covet for the midfielder.
Unclear future… Ross Barkley
Spurs chairman Levy is notorious for driving a hard bargain, often beginning his bidding with low-ball offers, and allowing the situation to drag out until he gets his man.
Levy has no issues signing a player late in the window, often to Tottenham’s detriment, if it means saving a few million.
Everton putting Barkley on the transfer list will give Tottenham the power in negotiations, although if they are truly desperate to get him off their books and start building a new generation with replacements, the Toffees could be willing to take the hit.
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