Ross Barkley seems to be the flavour of Merseyside as the Everton midfielder is ready to swap his Blue shirt. But with who, is the biggest question doing rounds! Reports from The Metro indicate that Manchester United have joined the race for the England international.

Tottenham Hotspur and Mauricio Pochettino were credited with the biggest interest in taking the midfielder to White Hart Lane. The young attacker has been courted by the Lilywhites for a long time now and the discussions were held up on Everton’s £50million asking price.

There were reports of the player demanding higher transfer wages – more than Harry Kane and Hugo Lloris, the top earning Tottenham stars. However, those were claimed as ‘untrue’ by Sky Sports. The protracted negotiations between the two clubs are not helping either as the deal looks to be going nowhere.

To add a twist, it is reported that United are ready to storm into the race and make Barkley their new acquisition. The transfer fees and weekly wages are well within the limits at Old Trafford. However, for a player who is into the final year of his contract, paying £50million is outrageous.

Our Verdict

Even before that, are we really interested? No doubt that we are looking to add a midfield general to our ranks but the names doing the rounds are that of Eric Dier and Marco Verratti. Dier, because we are genuinely interested and even discussed with Tottenham; Verratti because he brought in Mino Raiola as his agent.

Barkley is a surprise inclusion in the additions column as the player was never regarded as Jose Mourinho’s favourite. United right now, are going all out to test Tottenham’s resolve on keeping Dier. That’s a transfer which I would back to be completed if there is one.

There is no doubt that Barkley is an exciting talent but there are question marks on his consistency. Also, his ability to step up in big games or even live up to the atmosphere and ambitions at Old Trafford is questionable. Tottenham are the only interested party and I would believe that to remain intact. Clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal may join the race but United for Barkley? Highly unlikely!