Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley this summer.
The 27-year-old spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan with Aston Villa, making 24 appearances for the club, scoring three times and providing one assist in the process.
The England international is back with Chelsea ahead of the new season but is not believed to be in Thomas Tuchel's plans, meaning that a summer move is likely.
According to The Athletic, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce has identified the former Everton youngster as the ideal player to boost his midfield during the 2021-22 season.
The report claims that Arsenal's Joe Willock is the club's number one option in midfield, but the Englishman could have a role to play at the Emirates Stadium next term.
Barkley, who still has two years left to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge, has scored 11 times and registered 11 assists in 86 appearances for his parent club in all competitions.
