Reports this morning suggest that Everton midfielder is a wanted man this summer, with interest registered by Merseyside rivals Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.
The midfielder burst into the Toffees first team earlier this season and was picked in Roy Hodgson’s World Cup squad this summer. It’s this quick progress from the 20 year-old which justifies his high rating amongst top flight clubs.
Although a move to city rivals Liverpool is unlikley, they do have a huge transfer war chest in their favour following the transfer of Luis Suarez to Barcelona for a fee in the region of £70 million, so Everton could be tempted to part with the star if the bid is big enough.
There’s also rumours that Yaya Toure is growing increasingly frustrated with life at Manchester City, so City could swoop in for Barkley if their talismanic midfielder does leave the Etihad this summer.
Manchester United are also in the process of rebuilding their squad after the collapse of last season, and Barkley is supposed to be on their wishlist having just completed the signing of fellow young English star Luke Shaw.
Finally, Chelsea could see Barkley as a long term replacement for the released Frank Lampard, who at his peak would strive forward into the box and score goals from long range, which is a similiar type of play that the 20 year-old possesses.
However, Roberto Martinez is understandably keen to keep his hottest prospect at Goodison Park this summer, and the fact he’s an Everton fan and still relatively inexperienced could come into play should he face a decision on his future.
Matthew Derrig
