As per The Telegraph, Tottenham have been handed a huge boost in their pursuit of Everton midfielder Ross Barkley after Toffees boss Ronald Koeman declared he won’t be playing for the club next season.
Amid interests from Tottenham, Barkley has been constantly linked with a Goodison Park exit this summer, and recent comments from Koeman confirm this to be indeed true.
When asked during a press conference if Barkley is truly leaving, the manager replied, “Yes. 100 per cent. I knew this already from the end of last season. We made a really good offer to him to sign a new contract, he declined that contract and told me that he is looking for a new challenge.
“Okay he is not in Everton’s future any more. It is his decision. I need to respect that and see what happens.”
Everton had quoted £50million as Barkley’s transfer fees, and that appeared to stand in the way of Tottenham and other interested clubs.
However, with the club now ready to get the midfielder off their books, listening to offers below their asking price is certain.
At 23, the England international is a perfect fit for the Mauricio Pochettino-youth evolution going on at Spurs. A change of environment and the new challenge he so desires could see Barkley finally realize his full potential.
