Chelsea Want Barkley In £20m Sale and Loan-Back

Chelsea are ready to pay up to £20million for Everton teenager Ross Barkley and are willing to loan him back to the Goodison Park side for up to 18 months.

The Sunday People reports that owner Roman Abramovich is determined to land the 17-year-old – who is also wanted by Manchester United – but is willing to sanction a deal whereby Barkley returns to Goodison Park in a loan deal that will see him complete his football education with the Toffees.

Everton boss David Moyes has already been promised funds to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window after the club sold Mikel Arteta to Arsenal in a £10million deal on transfer deadline day. However, the sale of Barkley would give him some real clout in the transfer market after the club’s financial constraints meant he was unable to spend this summer.

A deal for Barkley now would also suit Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas, according to the People. The manager does not need Barkley at present but sees him as a great future prospect and feels that a deal with Everton to tie down the youngster would be of benefit to the Blues.

Chelsea Eye Up Macclesfield Defender

Chelsea are also keen on Macclesfield Town defender Elliott Hewitt. The 17-year-old Wales Under-21 defender has interested a number of top clubs with the Blues being the latest to have him watched.

Hewitt made his debut for the Silkmen in the final game of last season and has played four more League Two games this season.

Macclesfield are looking for around £1.75million for the youngster.