There are more than a few raised eyebrows here in the Football Transfer Tavern as the Daily Mail seem to think that £50 million would not even get Ross Barkley on loan for the rest of the season.
As our landlord notes over pulling a pint, the starlet certainly has a fantastic reputation but for Martinez to say such a thing, even half seriously, we are questioning if the Christmas spirit has affected him a little bit too much.
Barkley is hot property, and Manchester United are certainly in the mix to land the player with former Toffees boss David Moyes fully aware how good the player is, but they face a stiff battle with Chelsea – and that is if the player is allowed to leave in the first place!
Given Martinez was asked about the possibility of a £50 million bid once the January window opens, and then claimed: ‘You wouldn’t even get him on loan for that,’ we are pretty sure he will be staying at Everton for at least the foreseeable future.
Martinez had further welcome news for Everton fans after he spoke about the financial status of the club now, noting:
‘We are in a strong position financially, so it is not an irritation or worry to see this sort of speculation.
‘The financial stability we have at this club now means we can make footballing decisions, based on what is best for us on the pitch, and that is what will happen in the January window. We are looking to bring in one or two new faces, and I can guarantee you we will be stronger for the second half of the season.’
