Everton open contract talks with Barkley

The proposed deal would see the 20-year-old's salary doubled from £20,000 to £40,000 per week, while Roberto Martinez is also keen on a revised contract for James McCarthy

Everton have opened talks with Ross Barkley over a new contract, Goal understands.

The revised deal for the 20-year-old would see his wage doubled from £20,000 to £40,000 per week as Everton attempt to secure the short-term future of their prize asset.

After a stellar breakthrough campaign under Roberto Martinez, during which he scored six goals in 34 Premier League appearances, the England international has attracted interest from Manchester United.

As revealed by Goal earlier this month, Everton are considering a move for Danny Welbeck and United would consider using the forward as a bargaining chip in any potential deal for Barkley.

Everton, however, remain adamant that the midfielder, who is in Roy Hodgson's World Cup squad, will not be leaving Goodison Park this summer.

Martinez is also keen for the club to renegotiate a new contract for James McCarthy who, like Barkley, has attracted interest from United in the past.

The 23-year-old has become an integral part of the Spaniard’s midfield after arriving in a £13 million deal from Wigan last summer.

Everton, meanwhile, are also working on a permanent deal for Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry following his successful loan spell last season.