Newcastle United are said to be leading the race to sign Ross Barkley, although Leeds United are also interested, TeamTalk report.
At the front of the queue
Barkley actually played for Chelsea in their last match, which was his first Premier League start of the season, but there is still a feeling that he could depart and Newcastle are right at the head of the queue for his signature.
Any deal would likely be a loan one initially, with a view to making it permanent in the summer.
Newcastle are said to be more than capable of paying Barkley’s wages, although with Eddie Howe wanting to renovate his squad, he will have to carefully choose which players he signs on temporary deals due to Premier League restrictions.
Top flight clubs in England are only allowed four loan players in their match day squad at any given time.
If Barkley was to arrive at Newcastle he could be an appealing addition to their squad.
The attacking midfielder would inject some much needed creativity and give them a bit more flair going forward.
Newcastle only really have Joe Willock out of their central midfield options who can provide an attacking thrust.
And with Howe likely to look to play a more stylish brand of football bringing in some more technical operators is set to be crucial.
World Cup dreams
Barkley apparently feels that a strong end to the season could get him back into the England squad for the World Cup in 2022, so he will be highly motivated to succeed at St. James’ Park if he does arrive.
Barkley’s signing would also likely please Callum Wilson, who is a major fan of the playmaker.
He said last season on the Super Six podcast: “I was surprised [Chelsea let him go]. What I would say is that he’s at Villa now, but training with him he’s unreal!
“For me as a striker he’d be a great person to play with, he’d help me score goals.
“I didn’t realise he would’ve gone on loan from Chelsea otherwise I’d have said to the manager you’ve got to bring him up here, he’s unbelievable!”
Wilson would be expecting to receive increased service if Barkley did sign up.
And it could well be a transfer to keep an eye on, as Newcastle start planning for a big recruitment drive in January.
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