Burnley Eyeing January Swoop For Chelsea Star: Should Tuchel Let Him Leave? | OneFootball

According to The Sun, Burnley have expressed interest in Ross Barkley. The Chelsea outcast has emerged as an ideal option as Sean Dyche looks to shore up his creative options in January. As such, the Clarets are ready to pay the large sum of Barkley’s wages in an attempt to sign him on loan during the second half of the campaign.

Ross Barkley’s Disastrous Spell At Chelsea

Ross Barkley has never really managed to hit the heights since his €16 million move to Chelsea in 2018. He has featured in almost 100 competitive appearances for the club, but has lacked consistency, productivity and most importantly, the quality to make the team even better.

Especially in recent years, Barkley has found himself trailing behind the likes of Kai Havertz, Mason Mount and Christian Pulisic in the pecking order. It was a vital reason why he was shipped out to Aston Villa on loan, and although the playmaker did enjoy a promising start to his career at Villa Park, his influence faded as the season progressed.

Barkley returned to Stamford Bridge in the summer, and since then, the midfielder has featured in only three competitive appearances, none of which have been starts. The Englishman is not even considered as the main alternative in the attacking midfield position, especially after the summer addition of Saul Niguez.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 01: Ross Barkley of Chelsea during the Pre Season Friendly between Arsenal and Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on August 1, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

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Should Chelsea Cash In On Barkley?

It was surprising to see Ross Barkley remain at Stamford Bridge this summer, although one would imagine Chelsea had difficulties finding a suitor who could afford his wages.

But now with Burnley interested in his services, it is an ideal opportunity for the reigning European champions to offload Barkley. It is apparent that the Englishman doesn’t have any future in London, having struggled to deal with the stiff competition in the attacking midfield unit.

A move to Turf Moor, in that regard, could make sense for all parties involved. Burnley could have their much-needed depth in the creative department whilst giving Barkley a platform to prove himself.

The departure could see Chelsea open up some much-needed space in the squad. It could be useful in the club’s bid to add new faces in the upcoming January transfer window, as the Blues continue their overhaul under Thomas Tuchel.