Everton may be disappointed with Romelu Lukaku’s decision not to sign a new contract, but there is movement within the club in order to tie down midfielder Ross Barkley on a long-term contract.

A couple of months ago, it seemed that the 23-year-old did not have a future at the club – especially under Ronald Koeman. The Dutchman has been highly critical of the England midfielder since he took over in the summer. However, Barkley has responded with improved performances which have seen him score four goals and create seven goals in 26 league appearances.

However, he has just under 18 months left on his contract, which expires in the summer of 2018. In the past, several clubs have been attributed with an interest in Barkley. He was seen as the next big thing from the Everton youth academy, but Manchester City and Chelsea are thought to have cooled down their interest in the player. Tottenham are reportedly ready to take advantage of the contractual situation and step in for the midfielder.

Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino is thought to be a huge admirer of the midfielder. Adding the playmaker to the the squad will significantly strengthen their creative options, while also adding more steel to the midfield.

Barkley is an all-round player capable of creating chances while also getting back into the box to help out his defenders. Even though Dele Alli has been the best performer in the midfield by some distance, Pochettino clearly sees the need to have an alternative to the 21-year-old should he suffer an injury.

Top scorer Harry Kane recently suffering a second major injury of the season appears to have made Pochettino aware about the need to have a strong squad in order to regularly cope with European and domestic demands. Spurs have been qualifying regularly for European competitions in the last few years, but they have been unable to take their game to the next level in the continental stage largely due to the lack of squad strength.

Barkley may be one of the highly rated talents in English football, but he will cost substantially less. Everton would rather sell him in the summer rather than have him leave on a free transfer in the summer of 2018.