Chelsea are leading the race for Everton starlet Ross Barkley after Manchester City decided that the £50 million asking price for the young star was too much for them to consider, as reported by the Daily Star.
City’s hierarchy revealed their interest in the England international to the Toffees last week, and said that they were willing to put together a £35 million bid for the star.
However, Everton are demanding a staggering £50 million transfer fee for their 20 year old star, and in fact, might not even sell him at that price.
City have since decided that they will consider other options, with Barkley having been considered a potential replacement for star midfielder Yaya Toure, and this puts Chelsea in the driving seat for the wonderkid.
Having loaned two players to the Blues in recent years, Chelsea have a good relationship with Everton, and this could aid them in their chase for Barkley.
There’s no ‘race’ to lead. Everton have said he’s not for sale, the player himself is very happy at the club, and he signed a 4 year contract just 9 weeks ago. Everton no longer sell their best players. They sold none of the best players this past summer, and signed up all their best players on long term deals.