Rumour: Manchester United edge Chelsea in the race for Everton midfielder Ross Barkley

Ross Barkley of England in action during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group D match between England and Italy at Arena Amazonia on June 14, 2014 in Manaus, Brazil.

Manchester United have edged Chelsea in the race for Everton star man Ross Barkley, according to reports in the Daily Star.

The Everton youngster had a memorable season for the Toffees and he was rewarded with a call-up to the squad for this summers World Cup. The 20-year-old put in an eye-catching performance off the bench against Italy during the defeat in England’s opening game, but Roy Hodgson insisted afterwards he was unhappy with Barkley giving the ball away too much.

Barkley’s performances have attracted the attention of big clubs across the Premier League and Manchester United, along with Chelsea, have emerged as front-runners for his signature. However, the former are currently favourites to sign Barkley and Louis van Gaal is a big fan.

Odds of 5/4 are being offered for United to snap up Barkley before September 2, leading Chelsea on 11/4 and Liverpool with 16/1.

Martinez recently said that he does not intend to sell the Toffees’ main man and will keep him at Goodison Park.

He said last month: “I would not sell even if we got a huge bid. It would be wrong for him.

“I always feel as manager you develop a relationship with players and you’re always honest with that.

“Ross is a phenomenal talent, probably the best English talent I have ever seen, but he is not the finished article yet and you need to be very careful.”

Barkley was recently praised by former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard, who said he is eager to help Barkley progress for England.