Everton boss Rafael Benitez is interested in bringing Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley back to the club in the January transfer window.
That’s according to The Telegraph, who claim that Barkley is one of the targets on Benitez’s wish list.
Benitez will lead Everton’s transfer business in January following the exit of Marcel Brands.
Barkley is understood to have been discussed inside Everton as a potential signing ahead of the January window.
Barkley earns £110,000-a-week at Chelsea and could be available given how many other midfield options are at Thomas Tuchel’s disposal.
Benitez allegedly wants to sign an attack-minded midfielder and has now picked out Barkley as a player who can fill that role.
That may not go down too well with Everton fans, who saw Barkley leave for Chelsea in January 2018.
Barkley came through the Everton ranks, racking up 179 appearances and 27 goals for the Toffees.
Now 28, Barkley’s career hasn’t quite gone to plan since leaving Everton, playing just 57 times for Chelsea.
Barkley did have great moments at Everton, being branded ‘special’ and praised for having ‘incredible potential’ by Roberto Martinez.
A lack of quality and consistency since leaving Everton will leave some Everton fans worried about Benitez’s move – but the Spaniard may feel he can get Barkley back on track.
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