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Everton could lose key players if Koeman is tempted to Barcelona

Everton manager Ronald Koeman (REUTERS)
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The Dutchman has been named on a four-man shortlist by the Catalan giants, so what would his exit mean for the Toffees squad?

Everton manager Ronald KoemanEverton manager Ronald Koeman

Barcelona have drawn up a four-man shortlist as to who will replace Luis Enrique as manager this summer and Everton’s Ronald Koeman is on it, according to the Sun.

As a former Camp Nou player who has been made a name for himself as a coach over the past few years this is perhaps little surprise, but what would his departure mean for the Toffees squad?

The future of Romelu Lukaku at Goodison Park has been cast into doubt after rejecting a new contract, while the Metro has reported that Ross Barkley is also ready for a move.

Both players have kicked on and developed under Koeman this season, with Lukaku having become the first Everton player to score more than 20 league goals in a campaign since Gary Lineker in 1985/86, and Barkley beginning to realise his potential.

Everton's Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku  before the matchEverton’s Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku before the match

The pair owe much to their Dutch boss for their good form in 2016/17 and with the Toffees just six points outside the Champions League places currently, may feel a platform for success is being built under the 54-year-old.

However, if Koeman was tempted by Barca – and let’s face it, most managers would be if offered the job – the main factor keeping Barkley and Lukaku at the club may be lost with him.