Report: Tottenham blow as PL giants latest to join race for 23-year-old ace
By Matt Bullin
Chelsea are set to rival Tottenham in the race to sign Everton star Ross Barkley, according to a report.
The Daily Express claims Antonio Conte is looking at the 23-year-old as a possible replacement for Cesc Fabregas who is being eyed up by both Milan clubs.
SkyBet placed Tottenham as 6/5 favourites to sign the 22-time England international after Ronald Koeman handed him an ultimatum, saying he had one week to sign a contract extension otherwise he would be sold in the summer window.
Mauricio Pochettino has expressed an interest in Barkley for some time as his contract dispute has become public, casting his future at Goodison Park into doubt.
However now it seems Conte, who is set to go on a £120million summer spending spree, is ready to rival Spurs for his signature with the offer of inflated wages.
The 23-year-old returned to the starting XI to score the winner in Everton’s 1-0 win against Watford on Friday.
He has now scored five goals and provided nine assists in his 35 Premier League games this term.
Football Insider verdict
Chelsea’s interest is a huge blow to Spurs. There is no wage structure in place at Stamford Bridge, so if they want their man they will be willing to offer astronomical wages, something that Spurs cannot do. Not only would it be a blow to Tottenham’s team if they miss out on Barkley, but if Chelsea do sign him it will only improve their already top-class side. However for Barkley, while a starting place is not guaranteed at either club, he is more likely to be given a chance to shine by Pochettino, who has a good reputation for moulding young players.
In other Tottenham transfer news, Pochettino is interested in signing this German international.
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