Chelsea playmaker Ross Barkley has reportedly emerged as a surprise transfer target for Newcastle United.
At a time when a Saudi Arabia-based consortium are believed to be on the verge to finalising a takeover of the Magpies, Rafael Benitez has been rumoured with a return to the St James’ Park dugout.
According to The Telegraph, the Spaniard has already begun talks with several players to make a switch to St James Park and on of them has been Ross Barkley.
The report suggests that former Everton man appears high on Benitez’s shortlist having failed to secure a place in the Chelsea starting XI ahead of the next season.
The England international, who has three years left on his current deal, has made only 13 starts and six substitute appearences during the 2019/20 season that has been suspended following the coronavirus pandemic.
At a time when Frank Lampard has his own targets ahead of next campaign, the Blues may be open to parting ways with the 26-year-old.