Everton reject £25m offer for Barkley from Chelsea

Everton have rejected a £25m offer for Ross Barkley from Premier League rivals Chelsea.

The 23-year-old has been the subject of speculation regarding leaving the Toffees, with current manager Ronald Koeman even saying in July he “100%” expected Barkley to leave.

His situation has been complicated by a severe hamstring injury, which could see him out for another three months.

Everton had initially set an asking price of £50m but could receive less if the player manages to leave before the transfer deadline on Thursday, 31 August, as he only has one year left on his contract.

It is unclear how the negotiations will pan out but Spurs may weigh-in with a trademark late move in an attempt to snatch the player.

The academy graduate has played 150 times for Everton in the Premier League, scoring 21 times since making his debut six years ago.