Ronald Koeman not confident Ross Barkley will stay at Everton and says club are looking for replacements
Tottenham are among a number of clubs understood to be interested in the 23-year-old with manager Koeman last week telling him to sign before the end of the season or he will be sold
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Ronald Koeman is not confident Ross Barkley will sign a new contract at Everton and confirmed the club are looking for replacements.
The England midfielder has one year remaining on his current deal and is yet to agree on new terms despite being offered an extension by the club.
Tottenham are among a number of clubs understood to be interested in the 23-year-old with manager Koeman last week telling him to sign a new deal before the end of the season or he will be sold this summer.
And with no breakthrough forthcoming it looks more certain than ever the player will leave Goodison Park in the upcoming window.
Asked on Friday whether he was confident Barkley would put pen to paper: "No. I spoke to the player, the board spoke to his agent. I don't know if he won't give an answer. I don't know.
Koeman is relaxed and despite wanting Barkley to stay confirmed the club are pondering other options.
"We will go on and we're looking for players in that position. If he stays there will be more competition," he added. "I am not worried because I like to work with players who like to play.
"If you offer a player a new contract, and a good contract, that means you want to keep the player."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments