Everton boss Ronald Koeman remains unsure over Ross Barkley future

Everton manager Ronald Koeman remains unsure and unconvinced that midfielder Ross Barkley will sign a new deal at the Premier League club, reports Sky Sports.

The 23-year-old is out of contract at the end of next season and has repeatedly been reminded by Dutchman Koeman that if no extension is agreed by the time the summer comes around, he’ll be sold in the coming transfer window.

Barkley has sometimes come in for criticism from his manager this term, yet has still managed a decent return of five goals and eight assists in 35 Premier League appearances.

Yet Toffees boss Koeman remains unsure as to whether he’ll agree an extension.

When asked whether he was confident of Barkley staying, he said in his pre-Arsenal press conference (via Sky Sports): ‘No, because it is a long time he has been thinking about his future.

‘I am not worried because I like to work with players who like to stay.

‘We will go on and we’re looking for players in that position. If he stays there will be more competition for him next season.’

This may come as good news for the North London duo of Arsenal and Tottenham, who have reportedly been keeping tabs on Barkley’s situation at Everton ahead of a possible move this summer.

And it seems to be becoming increasingly likely that the 23-year-old will be leaving Goodison Park in the coming months, but where he ends up very much remains to be seen.