In what looks like some form of reverse tapping up, Joey Barton's agent has contacted his beloved Everton alerting them of the midfielder's services, reports the Mirror. Barton Grew up supporting the Toffees and would be willing to take a 50% wage cut. According to the Mirror 'Barton is even willing to join Everton for training to prove that his fitness matches his desire - and Martinez is giving the idea serious thought.' I'm sure QPR and Harry Redknapp would be gutted to see him leave.
Perhaps Barton's dream move would be more likely if Everton's bid for Wigan's James McCarthy is unsuccessful. The Star is reporting that Everton have tabled a £15 million bid for the Republic Of Ireland midfielder, although Wigan are holding out for £20 million.
The Daily Mail are reporting that Tottenham could enter the race to sign Luis Suarez if they sell Gareth Bale, which would be a blow not only to Liverpool but Tottenham's north London rivals Arsenal. Tottenham were interested in signing the Uruguay forward before he went to Liverpool.
Real Madrid have turned up the pressure on Tottenham with Zinedine Zidane ominously saying that "The chance to play for Real Madrid might only come around once in a player’s lifetime and it is understandable that Gareth doesn't want to miss out."
Picture credit: Barry Cregg / SPORTSFILE
