Ross Barkley to sign for Chelsea in January?

Jose Mourinho wants Chelsea to make a £20million January bid for Ross Barkley – but has been told he must sell first if he wants to land a major mid-season purchase, writes Dave Kidd in the Sunday People.

The Special One wants Everton’s England new boy to add dynamism to his midfield, and it is believed that Juan Mata’s future at the Stamford Bridge club is still far from certain.

But a move to Chelsea would put Barkley on a collision course with England boss Roy Hodgson, who sees him as a potential World Cup starter.

Hodgson is keen for the teenager to remain at the Toffees, where he is guaranteed first-team football.

Barkley, 19, is under contract until 2016 at Goodison Park and Everton boss Roberto Martinez wants him to agree a pay rise to extend his current deal.

But Chelsea could offer him a more lucrative salary if Mourinho decides to move for the player in January.

David Moyes had been linked with a move to take Barkley to Manchester United, but it is understood that he has reservations about the player he used to manage at Everton.

And despite being a huge favourite with members of the club hierarchy and Chelsea supporters, Mata could make way for Barkley if Chelsea receive an offer of more than £20m


Source: Mirror