As per Liverpool Echo, Tottenham are at a great risk of losing out on top target and Everton midfielder Ross Barkley, as Chelsea have emerged very serious contenders for the services of the England international.
The 23-year-old is certain to leave Goodison Park this summer, and the Merseyside club are holding out for £50million as his asking price.
Spurs, however, are reportedly willing to only strike a deal worth around £20million. There are also issues as per Barkley’s wages demand as only 2 players earn £100,000 plus in wages at the north London club.
It doesn’t appear this is a problem for Chelsea, though, yet they won’t be likely forking out Everton’s asking price to land their man.
Despite boasting of a quality starting XI at his disposal, manager Mauricio Pochettino could do with an additional hand in midfield, and Barkley wouldn’t be a bad recruitment.
As far as clinching a starting spot goes, choosing between Chelsea and Tottenham should be a complete dilemma for the 23-year-old.
However, that Spurs boast of the youngest squad in the Premier League on an average stacks the odds in their favour.
Only that their limited spending power doesn’t, and Chelsea could very much emerge victorious in the battle for Barkley’s signature.
