Everton manager Sam Allardyce concedes that Ross Barkley could be sold to Chelsea in January and there’s little he could do about it. Barkley came close to leaving the Toffees in the summer but an injury saw the midfielder opt to remain at Goodison Park. With the January window approaching and the player nearing a return to action, speculation over Barkley’s future is increasing.
Allardyce says he hasn’t yet had the opportunity to speak to Barkley but if the player – who is out of contract at the end of the season – doesn’t sign a new deal and the owners wish to sell in January he is powerless. ‘It’s a difficult one. I think when Ross is on his way back I can find out the truth, or the whole, scenario and say, “Where does it lie?” and then make a decision one way or the other. I haven’t had the opportunity yet. ‘I’m not in control of that in too many ways. If someone comes in during January and says, “Here you go” and the club says, “Look, if he’s not going to sign for us, this has to be the case” then I accept that.’
Chelsea are understood to be keen on signing Barkley, with Antonio Conte thought to be a fan of the England international. Tottenham were also linked with the 24-year-old over the summer.
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