Arsenal Transfer News: Ross Barkley Reportedly Eyed Amid Fresh Tottenham Rumours

Arsenal are reportedly ready to rival Tottenham Hotspur in the chase for Everton midfielder Ross Barkley. 

According to Tom Collomosse of the Evening Standard, Barkley is set to leave the Toffees, with under one year remaining on his contract at Goodison Park. Spurs are noted as the primary suitors, although the Gunners are said to be keeping an eye on the situation.

Paul Joyce of The Times also recently reported that both Manchester United and Chelsea have an interest in the England international.

"Barkley has long been wanted by Tottenham and is attracted by the idea of joining the club where Mauricio Pochettino has worked successfully with his England colleagues Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Danny Rose and Eric Dier," Collomosse said.

Dan Mullan/Getty Images

It's suggested Everton are holding out for £50 million for Barkley. Sports journalist Patrick Boyland believes the more interested parties, the better for the Toffees:

Still, the situation is curious. Barkley honed his craft in the Everton academy and burst on to the scene in 2013-14 with some brilliant performances. However, since that season, he's failed to kick on.

The most consistent spell of football he's put together in an Everton shirt since was in the second half of the campaign just gone. Manager Ronald Koeman utilised Barkley in a wider role, where his decision-making, link-up play and work rate was improved.

As noted by Squawka Football, he was a creative presence:

"

Most chances created by U23 players in Europe's top 5 leagues last season:

Ross Barkley (84)
Thomas Lemar (72)
Nabil Fekir (64)
Suso (62) pic.twitter.com/ctnpOIzEyu

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) July 17, 2017"

But a new contract has remained unsigned, and with the Toffees splashing big money in the transfer window, it appears the club is happy to cash in on the talented midfielder.

Other elite teams in the Premier League look ready to take a chance on the player. Spurs appear to be the favourites to land the 23-year-old, even though a recent report from Adrian Kajumba in the Daily Mirror suggested the Everton man was requesting £150,000 per week, more than the likes of Kane and Hugo Lloris earn.

Chris Brunskill/Getty Images

Dominic King of the Daily Mail refuted those suggestions, though, noting there are numerous clubs interested in Barkley's signature:

For Arsenal, he would be an interesting acquisition. Although they have a plethora of attacking-midfield options, Barkley would add a different edge to the side.

The big concern for the England man is whether he would be able to nail down a regular spot in the team at Arsenal—or at Spurs, Chelsea or United for that matter. Whatever decision Barkley makes will be key in determining whether he goes on to realise his potential.