TomDixie said:
He loves Everton, he has just signed a 4 year contract and we're very well set financially. We hold all of the cards.
I'm relaxed about the situation. Worst comes to worst and he leaves (and I'm 99% sure it won't come to this), then we will have rinsed you or any other money club for a ludicrous amount of money.
Actually, you hold one of the cards. The card in the shape of Ross Barkley. To keep that card you have done one of two things required to ensure a top player stays at a club - you've paid him more money and given him a long term contract. The second thing required is something that is more difficult... you have to win trophies or at least challenge for them. Meanwhile City come knocking with a more lucrative deal (more money) and Ross thinks... I could go there and win things. I think you will find that we in fact hold all of the cards. You will make a lot of money from him. But how will you spend it? You bought Lukaku for £28m and meanwhile Chelsea paid £4m more for Costa. They also signed Fabregas for a really good fee. To entice a top player to Everton you will either have to over pay or go for cheaper options abroad and hope they are under valued. Unfortunately for clubs like Everton, you hold only the player - the rich club that wins things holds all the cards. Loyalty is out the window now.