Transfer Centre

Ronald Koeman planning Ross Barkley, Moussa Sissoko swap deal?

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 24 December 2016

Everton manager Ronald Koeman is reportedly planning to offer Ross Barkley in exchange for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Moussa Sissoko.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman is reportedly planning to propose Tottenham Hotspur a swap deal involving Ross Barkley and Moussa Sissoko.

Barkley has come in for criticism for his faltering performances in the Toffees' midfield this season and Koeman has admitted that he is "not sure" whether the 23-year-old will ever reach his potential.

Koeman tried to sign Sissoko over the summer following Newcastle United's relegation from the Premier League but the Frenchman instead moved to Spurs, where he has found it difficult to settle.

According to The Mirror, Koeman is planning to offer a straight swap between the two players, both of whom are valued at around £30m, when the transfer window reopens next month.

The newspaper claims that although getting a deal over the line would be difficult due to complicated contracts, "a move would suit both players and clubs".

Spurs are thought to have been tracking Barkley for some time, with manager Mauricio Pochettino believing that he could perform for his side in a free role behind frontman Harry Kane.