Everton boss Roberto Martinez has insisted that Ross Barkley will not depart the Merseyside outfit in the January transfer window.
Reports of a £50m offer from Manchester United have surfaced in recent days, but Martinez has quelled suggestions that the England international could be on the move.
"He has a long-term contract and the first half of the season has been a real joy to see him grow and the second half of the season will be even better," Martinez told reporters at a press conference.
"We are in a strong position financially. When you have to bring in money then it can be a real difficult position as you can be anxious and frustrated.
"The stability we have from a financial point of view allows us to make football decisions and this January window is important for us to make sure we kick on and finish stronger than we started."
Barkley, 20, is widely regarded as one of the best young talents in European football and has appeared in all but one of Everton's 19 league games this season.
Matt Law
