Ross Barkley was a transfer rumor mill mainstay for a while, though that talk has cooled off since the Everton star has grown in age and import to the Toffees.
Bet your bottom dollar he’ll be back in the headlines, thanks to his manager Ronald Koeman.
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Barkley, 23, is wanted by Koeman but faces a problem: The manager will sell the player if a new contract isn’t agreed in the near future.
From the Liverpool Echo:“I think every situation is different. Ross is a boy from Everton, and what we need to show to him is the best reasons to stay. Of course his situation is different because Ross is running out, next season is his last year of his contract.
“Football is a business, you make decisions. He needs to sign a new contract or you sell the player.”
Barkley looked to have taken the next step with a 12-goal year in 2015-16, but has had fits and starts under Koeman. He has five goals and seven assists this season, and has been more productive since moved to more of a right midfield position.
Any number of teams would vie for his services, especially considering his English international status. Tottenham has already been named as a suitor, and Man City may be in a spot for roster turnover. West Ham would also likely love the splash of adding a young Three Lions member.
Everton also faces uncertainty when it comes to the future of Romelu Lukaku.
