Redknapp names Everton’s perfect Barkley replacement

Matt Stead

Jamie Redknapp believes Gylfi Sigurdsson would be the “perfect replacement” for Ross Barkley if he leaves Everton.

Barkley faces an uncertain future at Goodison Park, with the midfielder yet to agree extended terms at the club.

Manager Ronald Koeman issued an ultimatum to the England international last week, warning him to sign or be sold.

But with no agreement forthcoming, Redknapp believes the club should cash in on the player and sign Swansea’s Sigurdsson as his replacement.

‘I’ve been impressed with how Ronald Koeman has handled the situation with Ross Barkley’s contract,’ Redknapp told the Daily Mail.

‘He has been up front in giving Barkley an ultimatum and if the midfielder does not want to sign, Everton should be ready to cash in.

‘Even though Barkley is entering the final year of his contract, Everton should still expect to get £25million for him.

‘Gylfi Sigurdsson would be the perfect replacement. Sigurdsson has great vision, assisting 13 goals for Swansea this season — five more than Barkley and second only to Kevin De Bruyne, who has 15.

‘Six of his assists have been for Fernando Llorente, making the pair the League’s most lethal duo. Sigurdsson should be playing for a top team.’