Fichajes have reported that Leeds United are interested in a move for Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkly in the January transfer window.
According to reports, Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa is keen to add new reinforcement to his side after the disappointing start to the season. Leeds have only picked up 11 points from 12 league games. Following which they sit just one place above the relegation zone in the 17th position.
The Englishman made a loan move to Aston Villa last season but it ended as a disappointment. While returning from loan, he has struggled for game time under Thomas Tuchel this season. Barkly has only featured in four Premier League matches this term, with a total of only 126 minutes of Premier League football. (stats via Transfermarkt)
He joined Chelsea in 2018 from Everton. The English attacking midfielder has struggled to get a foothold in the starting line-up ever since his move. This season Ross Barkly has fallen behind the likes of Mason Mount, Kai Havertz and Callum Hudson-Odoi in the pecking order at Chelsea.
On the other hand, Leeds United have massively struggled with injuries. Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds have identified Barkley as their top target as they are looking to add new faces to the creative department. Leeds also have Fabio Carvalho, John Swift, and Eddie Nketiah on their shortlist for the January transfer window.
Perfect move for Ross Barkley and Leeds United?
There is no doubt about the ability and talent of Ross Barkley. But Chelsea already have the likes of N’Golo Kante, Jorginho, Ruben Loftus Cheek, Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech, and Callum Hudson-Odoi in attack and midfield. Following which Ross Barkley has fallen quite far in the pecking order. So a move away from Stamford Bridge seems the best option.
Barley has never been able to fit into Thomas Tuchel’s 3-4-2-1 system. But Marcelo Bielsa’s system of high tempo and attacking football would suit Ross Barkley. While the attacking midfielder’s playstyle would suit Leeds too. He could prove to be the turning point for Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds’ this season.
Only Leed’s Raphinha has averaged a higher rate of key passes per 90 in the final third of the field than Ross Barkley’s 1.6 in the Premier League over 2020/2021( stats via WhoScored). Leeds United are hoping to sign the English attacking midfielder on a cut-price deal in the January transfer window.
Follow us on Twitter for regular football updates.
