Arsenal, Spurs to battle for Everton star

North London giants Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are set to go head-to-head in the pursuit of Everton ace Ross Barkley in the summer.

The England international is currently entering the final year of his contract, and talks over an extension are yet to progress at the Merseyside outfit.

According to The Star, both the Gunners and Spurs are keeping tabs on the talented playmaker and could pounce for his services during the off-season.

Toffees boss Ronald Koeman has insisted that Barkley remains a key component of his squad having recently regained his form, but the failure to find a breakthrough in contract talks could see the player being offloaded in the summer.

Barkley has netted two goals and five assists since the festive period, and his showing has earned him a call-up to Gareth Southgate's squad after a couple of omissions.

Everton are likely to demand a sum of around £30m if they are to let go of their key asset during the summer transfer window.