Sridhar Bhamidi
Ross Barkley is probably enjoying the best phase of his life – being in news that is. Not one day goes by without mentioning the exit of the England international from the Goodison Park. And now he has become the darling of bookmakers too as Ladbrokes have slashed their odds on him joining Manchester United.
This comes as a pleasant surprise because the midfielder has been linked with Tottenham Hotspur from day one of the transfer window – if not earlier. Having become a contract rebel at the club, rejecting all overtures, it was believed that he had his sights set on joining Mauricio Pochettino at the White Hart Lane.
As reported by Squawka, Spurs remain hot favourites for his signature although United have leapfrogged Arsenal and Chelsea to be the second favourites at 6/1. The 23-year-old has a contract that expires next summer and is widely tipped to leave his boyhood club.
However, Everton value the midfielder at £50million which is quite superlative for someone with just one year left on his contract. Even otherwise, Barkley’s performances have not been consistent enough to warrant such high price. The Toffees though are playing hardball with the Lilywhites over his price and are waiting to see if other clubs step up their interest.
Will United Go All Out?
Transfer fee shouldn’t be a problem, provided Jose Mourinho sees value in the player. I am not entirely sure if Barkley is the sort of player for whom Mourinho could go all out. Even if he does, Mourinho knows that for almost the same amount he can easily land Eric Dier from Spurs.
One probable reason for all this optimism linking Barkley with United is the arrival of his former teammate Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian linked well with Barkley at the Goodison Park and there is no harm in trying to rekindle the romance – provided the fee is right.
Barkley has long been touted as England potential but hasn’t stepped up to prove that theory. Next season could well be a make-or-break for him. Will that be at United? Ladbrokes may slash as much as they want but the midfielder’s destination may not be Old Trafford after all!
