Everton seem to be facing a fight to keep Ross Barkley, with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal among the sides interested in him.
Ross Barkley celebrates
A report in the Daily Mail has suggested that Everton are likely to put a much more financially-lucrative offer on the table in front of Ross Barkley than Tottenham plan to, but that that may still not be enough to tempt the attacking midfielder to stay at Goodison Park.
The Mail reports that Barkley is about to enter the final year of his contract with the Toffees, and Everton will look to sell him this summer if it becomes clear that he has no plans to sign a new deal, asking potential suitors to cough up £35 million.
Several of the teams above Everton in the Premier League are reportedly keen, with the Mail suggesting that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Spurs are all keeping a keen eye on developments involving the England international.
The Mail adds that Tottenham are the favourites to win the race to sign him, but that is despite the fact that he would be able to sign a better contract if he decides to stay on Merseyside.
According to the Mail, Barkley is keen to join a team that can offer Champions League football, and while Everton are progressing, it is Mauricio Pochettino’s side that will be able to offer Barkley that as early as next season.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino
It would undoubtedly send out a great message to Spurs’ other targets if they decided to pursue Barkley and won the race despite not offering the best financial package to the player.
The move to North London may confirm to other players that, while others may offer better contracts, Tottenham may well be the place to be if players want to realise their ambitions on the pitch.
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