Journalist Claims Chelsea Midfielder Is On The Radar Of Leeds United: Should Bielsa Move In For Him?

In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, renowned journalist Pete O’Rourke claimed that Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley is on the radar of Leeds United. O’Rourke said,

“I believe he (Ross Barkley) is on their list of targets. Leeds have had a slow start to this season by their standards from last season and are sitting at the wrong end of the table.”

Barkley’s Lack Of First-Team Starts At West London This Season

Barkley has struggled to earn regular playing time at Stamford Bridge this season but has still managed to put in a few eye-catching performances for them as a substitute. The 28-year-old has featured in eight matches for the Blues this season, receiving a total of 238 minutes of playing time across all fronts.

Most of the Liverpool-born sensation’s appearances have come off the bench but he has still been a valuable contributor at the heart of Thomas Tuchel’s midfield. Barkley is averaging 1.5 shots, 1.5 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from midfield, based on his pass success rate of 84.9% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).

Should Leeds United Boss Marcelo Bielsa Move In For Barkley?

Barkley can strike the ball with power and precision from long range and can also create some meaningful openings for others around him when he is playing with confidence on the field. He has got a good football IQ and can make a few clever runs with the ball from midfield.

The England international can whip in some dangerous crosses into the opponent’s penalty box but needs to be more productive in the final third if he wants to re-establish himself as one of the top midfielders in England.

Joining Leeds United would be a good career move for Barkley as he will earn regular first-team opportunities under the stewardship of Marcelo Bielsa. We can expect the ex-Everton sensation to add some goals and creativity to the Whites‘ midfield department. Plus, Barkley has what it takes to become a real fan-favourite at Elland Road. Therefore, Bielsa would be wise to move in for the Chelsea outcast when the transfer window reopens in January.