Tottenham are set to be rewarded for their patience regarding Ross Barkley as Everton finally appear ready to negotiate.
The Independent report that Mauricio Pochettino has long been interested in the England international, but the Toffees have so far proved too stubborn when it comes to a fee.
Barkley’s refusal to sign a new contract – with just a year left on his current deal – may have shifted the club’s position.
Everton were initially asking £50million, a price tag which Daniel Levy will not pay. Even now Spurs have received a similar fee for Kyle Walker from Manchester City, they are unwilling to spend it all on the midfielder.
However, to avoid the risk of losing Barkley for nothing in 12 months’ time, the Blues will now consider a lower offer.
Ronald Koeman’s signing of Davy Klaassen and his pursuit of Gylfi Sigurdsson suggest he is already planning for life without the 23-year-old.
There may be no room for him at Goodison Park, but Pochettino is still confident he can get the best out of him as he hopes to boost his attacking midfield options for next season.
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