Ross Barkley targeted by Manchester United in £45 million bid

As if the rumors circling Romelu Lukaku and John Stones weren't enough we've gotten our first taste of Ross Barkley transfer rumors. It appears not only is Manchester United interested in Lukaku to fix the Red Devils offense, but also gaining some skill in the midfield by taking another Everton midfielder before he hits his prime.

This has to be the toughest pill to swallow for Everton fans and Everton owners as well. Would Everton have sold Wayne Rooney all those years ago if they had had the investment they do now? I think it's unlikely. So while Lukaku and Stones might be taken as potential sales I think any deal involving Barkley is a non starter.

The rumored bid of £45 million is a hefty prize, but Barkley means so much to this team and to the fans that a sale now with financial stability at the club it would be a crushing blow to moral of the club and supporters. With two years left on his deal it might even be a good time for the team to address his contract and extend him to quiet summer transfer talk.

Much like Everton though any of these rumors are based on teams keeping their current managers. If Louis van Gaal doesn't survive till the summer window then who Manchester United is interested in could change a lot.