Leeds United are reportedly in pole position to secure a deal for Chelsea outcast Ross Barkley in the January transfer window.
According to Fichajes, Leeds United are eyeing a January swoop for Ross Barkley. It appears Marcelo Bielsa is desperate to improve his team’s performances after a disappointing start to the campaign and is now keen on reinforcements in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Barkley has emerged as one of the top targets as Leeds United look to shore up their options in the creative department. The Whites are aware of the playmaker’s difficult situation at Chelsea and are hoping to snap him up for a cut-price fee in January.
Formerly of Everton, Barkley has had a difficult time since joining Chelsea back in 2018. He has struggled with a lack of game-time at the club and has failed to live up to his glowing potential. The midfielder notably spent last season on loan at Aston Villa but returned to Stamford Bridge in the summer after failing to make an impression.
Since returning to Chelsea, Barkley has only featured in 126 minutes of league football, falling behind the likes of Mason Mount, Kai Havertz and Callum Hudson-Odoi in the pecking order. Hence, a move away from Stamford Bridge is seemingly a possibility for Barkley, with Leeds United ready to offer him an opportunity to revive his career.
A native of Merseyside, Barkley did play for Leeds United briefly back in 2013, but his loan spell only lasted a month. However, the Whites are in a greater need of the Englishman at the moment, having struggled to rekindle their form from last season while failing to create too many chances going forward.
The Yorkshire giants have already been linked with a move for various talented midfielders and attackers across Europe this season, including the up and coming Marcus Tavernier. However, Barkley offers a wealth of Premier League experience Leeds United desperately require right now. He also provides a lot of versatility and could settle in quickly at Elland Road.
Unfortunately for Leeds, the Chelsea midfielder has no shortage of options, with Newcastle United and Burnley also interested in his services. Even his former club Everton are reportedly keen on bringing him back to Goodison Park, meaning Leeds United would certainly need to act swiftly if they are to secure the services of Barkley this January.
