Chelsea will reportedly make a move for Everton midfielder Ross Barkley next summer with Manchester City out of the running for the youngster.
According to the Daily Star, City had shown an interest in the England international with a view to a £35m offer.
However, Everton are believed to have told the Premier League champions that Barkley is not for sale and that any talks would not begin with an asking price below £50m.
The valuation doesn't appear to have put off Chelsea, who are said to have built a good relationship with Everton, having loaned Christian Atsu to the Toffees as well as agreeing to the sale of Romelu Lukaku this summer.
Chelsea continued their strong start to the season with a 3-0 win over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Written by
Chris O'Keefe
Chris O'Keefe
