Tuesday, 29th July, 2014
Everton have taken a big step towards keeping midfielder Ross Barkley by convincing him to sign a new four-year contract at Goodison Park.
Barkley was linked with both Liverpool and Manchester United last season, speculation boss Roberto Martinez sought to shrug off, intent on keeping the England international at the club.
And the Spaniard has done just that, with Barkley putting pen to paper on a fresh deal which all but ends any talk of the midfielder being on the move this summer, something Martinez admits the new contract is designed to do.
Martinez said at a press conference: "The good news is that Ross Barkley has signed a new contract at the club to reflect his new role and his development.
"It's as big news as we can get. Ross has a long way to go in his development, but it's good news to tell our fans that he has signed a new contract.
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"It's a big moment and as every Everton fan will tell you, Ross Barkley is the type of footballer you want to pay for a ticket to see.
"It is a new four year contract and gives piece of mind in avoiding any kind of speculation that always happens when players perform well."
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