Manchester United are set to step up their pursuit of Ross Barkley, by testing Everton’s resolve for the midfielder.
Barkley, aged 20 scored six goals for Everton last season, in a superb individual campaign for the academy graduate.
The midfielder’s superb performances have attracted interest from Manchester United amongst others.
Barkley put in an eye catching display after coming off the bench in England’s 2-1 World Cup defeat defeat against Italy in Manaus, and Louis Van Gaal is reportedly a big fan.
His current manager Roberto Martinez stated recently stated his admiration for the player, and has stated that even a huge bid would not tempt the Toffees into a sale.
He said last month: “I would not sell even if we got a huge bid. It would be wrong for him.
“I always feel as manager you develop a relationship with players and you’re always honest with that.
“Ross is a phenomenal talent, probably the best English talent I have ever seen, but he is not the finished article yet and you need to be very careful.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
