Ronald Koeman hopeful of Ross Barkley stay

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has insisted that the club will do what it takes to keep hold of Ross Barkley beyond the summer.

The 23-year-old, who has graduated through the club youth system, is approaching the final 12 months of his existing contract. 

Barkley has been linked with a move to one of Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, but Koeman is hopeful that the club will extend the player's contract in time.

"The situation about these players who will finish their contract after one year - he is one of them," Koeman told reporters.

"We will do everything to keep Ross and [get him] to sign a new contract. Talks are planned but I don't think they have started yet.

"In football you don't get guarantees. What will happen for next season will be for next season. It is not the right time to talk about next season." 

Barkley struggled for form during the early stages of the campaign, but he has found his feet since the festive period with four goals and two assists to his name.