Chelsea

Chelsea

Premier League • England

Chelsea star subject of ’emergency’ transfer interest from fellow Prem side

Ross Barkley and Cesar Azpilicueta celebrate a Chelsea goal

Ross Barkley could be handed a lifeline away from Chelsea by a Premier League club that would take him back to the north-west, according to a report.

Former Everton talent Barkley has found gametime hard to come by in recent years. He joined Chelsea in January 2018 and featured heavily in his first two full seasons at Stamford Bridge. But his form has taken a turn for the worse since.

The England international, uncapped since 2019, spent last season on loan at Aston Villa. It initially seemed he was getting his mojo back there, but he was unable to convince enough to earn a permanent transfer.

Now, his career is at a crossroads again. Turning 28 in December, Barkley is not getting the minutes he needs. In fact, he is yet to start a game this season; all three of his appearances so far have come from the bench, totalling just 68 minutes.

With a contract that runs until 2023, a departure next year is looking likely for the Chelsea misfit. An opportunity may even present itself in January.

According to The Sun, Burnley would be keen to take him when the winter transfer window opens, after also expressing an interest in him during the summer.

At the time, Barkley was keen to wait and weigh up his options. But if he continues to see little action on the pitch, Burnley may try their luck again.

The Clarets would like to take him on loan and would be willing to cover some of his wages, which would be some relief to Chelsea if they are not going to use him. (Coincidentally, Barkley’s salary caused the collapse of a move to West Brom on deadline day).

Barcelona shortlist three Chelsea defenders

Barcelona shortlist three Chelsea defenders

Barcelona have reportedly shortlist Chelsea defenders Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen all as transfer targets, with more news on Ousmane Dembele and Edinson Cavani.

While Chelsea are sitting at the top of the table, Burnley are currently in the bottom three. Winless after their opening eight games, Sean Dyche’s side could do with an injection of inspiration in January.

Barkley would have plenty to consider before making the move, but it seems certain that he would play more than he is currently doing in west London.

For those reasons, The Sun believe Chelsea are unlikely to object to a deal. It will thus all be down to Barkley to make the decision.

There is, of course, time for other suitors to get involved in the pursuit. But at present, interest in someone who hasn’t been playing much will be limited.

Chelsea to change midfielder loan plans?

While Barkley may be on his way out in January, one midfielder currently on loan away from Chelsea could return.

Billy Gilmour joined Norwich City in the summer on a season-long loan. The Scotland international is highly thought of but is having to be patient for opportunities.

Canaries coach Daniel Farke recently said he was under no pressure to play Gilmour just because of who his parent club was.

He proceeded to leave him on the bench for their draw with Brighton at the weekend.

Given that the move was designed for Gilmour to get more gametime than he would have at Chelsea, it has become a slight concern for his parent club.

With that in mind, the Sunday Express have claimed that Chelsea could recall Gilmour in January.

If he was to be reintegrated into Thomas Tuchel’s setup, it would further increase competition for places in their crowded midfield.

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