Ross Barkley is far too expensive to merit Chelsea’s attention

The latest rumours claim that Chelsea are keeping tabs on Ross Barkley. However, the Everton man is far too expensive to merit attention.

The future of Ross Barkley continues to be up in the air as he enters the last year of his Everton contract. The Toffees desperately want to keep him and have stuck a £50 million price tag on the Englishman. Even if the valuation drops, Barkley is still far too expensive for Chelsea to be tempted.

According to The Telegraph, the Blues are monitoring the situation as Barkley’s contract stand-off continues.

"Chelsea and Manchester United are also monitoring the situation… Everton have put a £50million price tag on the head of Barkley, which is unlikely to be met by any of the player’s suitors as he enters the final year of his Goodison Park contract."

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Barkley was once touted as England’s next greatest star, but he has flattered to deceive. Opinions are divided, with some still believing in his ability to kick on and take the game by storm, while others have added him to the list of overrated English talents.

Whatever side of the debate you agree with, £50 million for his services is ridiculous. He only has one year left to run on his current deal and he doesn’t appear to be close to signing an extension.

However, even if the price were to drop to about £30 million, Chelsea’s funds would be better spent elsewhere.

As an attacking midfielder, Barkley has only frustrated neutral viewers. He evidently possesses a bundle of talent, but he seems incapable of applying himself appropriately. Whether it be picking the wrong pass or not lifting his head, Barkley causes more anger than joy.

More concerningly, at the age of 23 time is fast running out. World-class players have usually proven themselves by this stage, or at least they would have showed significant development. Unfortunately, Barkley has done neither.

Chelsea should be channeling their resources and efforts into signing another wingback. With Eden Hazard, Willian, Pedro and a number of young exciting talents, the Blues are well covered in the attacking midfield roles. Barkley isn’t a player that would challenge the incumbents for a starting role, nor someone who should be put ahead of the likes of Kenedy and Lewis Baker in the pecking order.

As a personal disclaimer, I would love for Barkley to make me eat my words. If everything does click, he has the potential to spearhead England’s challenge for the World Cup. However, the chance of him clicking is just too low and the price just too high for Chelsea to care.

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What do you think? Should Chelsea pursue Ross Barkley? What price would you be willing to sign him at? Let us know in the comments below!