Ronald Koeman has confirmed Tottenham target Ross Barkley will leave Everton this summer.
Barkley has been heavily linked with a move to Spurs after rejecting a new contract at Everton.
Koeman told reporters: “His personal situation is not so difficult. 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.
“OK, he is not in Everton’s future any more. It is his decision. I need to respect that and see what happens. What I heard from the board at the moment is that there is no offer on the table for Ross.”
When asked if Barkley would definitely be sold this summer, Koeman said: “Yes.”
The Dutchman added: “It is really clear. I am looking to other players. That is my priority and not Ross, with all respect, because it is his decision.
“Everybody knows what the situation is. He told me at the end of last season. He has one more year on his contract and we work with respectful people.
“And after his surgery, if he is back for training, he will be part of the first team sessions. There have been no change. He has been the same.”
Tottenham balked at Everton’s £50 million valuation of Barkley earlier in the transfer window. With his departure all but certain, perhaps the Merseysiders will now lower their asking price.
So sad a local lad who was blue through and through has been unable to rise to the challenge given to him by a top top nanager, Good luck in the future Ross, shame you wont be a part of rhe project that will see us win trophies sooner rather than later…
somethings gone wrong between player and management we would love him at spurs but i cannot see who he would replace at the moment shame for the blues if they lose one of there own C.O.Y.S
Honestly, he is not a world class player and I would not pay more then £16m on him. Maybe under Poch he will improve his play but to risk more money it wouldn’t be a clever move