Ross Barkley 'delays talks over new Everton contract'

Ross Barkley has reportedly decided against opening talks with Everton regarding a new contract.

The midfielder's long-term future remains uncertain due to an up-and-down relationship with manager Ronald Koeman, who has publicly urged Barkley to improve on numerous occasions.

The 23-year-old, who has failed to make an England squad since the European Championships in the summer, was dropped for games against Manchester United and Watford, but impressed on his return to the lineup in Tuesday night's 2-1 victory over Arsenal.

With 18 months left on his current deal, Barkley is in no rush to put pen to paper on fresh terms, which has put Tottenham Hotspur on alert, according to the Daily Mail.

However, the report claims that Everton are unlikely to consider a January sale involving Barkley, who has been part of the club's setup since 2005.

The midfielder, who made his first-team debut in 2010, has scored three goals in all competitions this season.