As per reports from The Sun, the immediate future of Everton contract rebel Ross Barkley could be decided next month, with Stamford Bridge a very likely destination.
Chelsea are willing to snap Barkley up as the summer transfer window enters its last month, but they aren’t willing to meet Everton’s £50million demand.
Instead, the Premier League winners want to spend that amount on both Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain of Arsenal.
Topflight clubs are allowed just 17 foreigners in their 25-man squad, and Italian manager Antonio Conte reckons the English duo are perfect fit to complement his team’s ‘home-grown’ quota.
Following his refusal to sign a contract extension amidst claims of seeking a new challenge elsewhere, the 23-year-old midfielder has been given the green light to leave Goodison Park by boss Ronald Koeman.
Barkley’s inconsistencies through the past seasons are well documented, and while he remains capable of ever living up to his potential, his strained relationship with Koeman makes it somewhat impossible for him to hit his peak at Everton.
A move away is perfect for both parties involved, and if Everton play their cards well, they can get good business done with Chelsea or any other interested club over his sales.
