Newcastle United have been offered the chance to sign Ross Barkley on a free transfer this summer, according to Lee Ryder at The Chronicle.
The midfielder has shone during his time at Luton Town, but he’s set to leave on a free transfer following the Hatters’ relegation from the Premier League and has been heavily linked with a return to Aston Villa.
The Chronicle reveal that he’s represented by the same agency that look after Eddie Howe and a host of Newcastle stars, such as Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall. That only means so much, but highlights the links that already exist between his agent and the club, if we were keen to strike a deal.
Barkley has delivered five goals and six assists in all competitions this term and impressed during both of our meetings with Luton. He set up their winner in our 1-0 defeat at Kenilworth Road and bagged a goal and an assist in our 4-4 draw at St James’ Park in February.
He’s looked back to something near his best this season and benefited from regular game time, but it remains to be seen if we’ll be interested. The fact he’s now 30 may put us off, yet some feel he’d be a smart, low-cost replacement for Sean Longstaff if we decide to cash in on the Geordie midfielder for FFP reasons.
He’s stood out in the Luton team, but didn’t cut it at Chelsea. Don’t see that he’s any better than Anderson imo – only more experienced, but I’d rather give Anderson the chance.
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