Transfer Centre

Farhad Moshiri confirms Ross Barkley U-turn

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 31 August 2017

Everton majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri confirms that Ross Barkley decided against moving to Chelsea during his medical with the Premier League champions.

Everton majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri has confirmed that Ross Barkley changed his mind about joining Chelsea during his medical at the club's Cobham training complex.

The Premier League champions had agreed a £35m fee with the Toffees in addition to personal terms with the player, and Barkley travelled down to London to undergo his medical this evening.

However, the 23-year-old performed a remarkable U-turn during that medical and now wants to stay with Everton before reconsidering his position in January.

"The two clubs agreed a deal of £35m and personal terms were agreed and after the medical we heard from Ross Barkley's agent that he had changed his mind. He told us he wanted to reconsider and stay with us for the time being," he told Sky Sports News.

"It was a big surprise but that is football. It has been a very busy transfer window, we have brought in a lot of players especially in attacking areas. We have a lot of new players and it will take some time to gel. We are very happy with business. These are all Ronald Koeman's signings.

"We have also Yannick Bolasie and Seamus Coleman fit in October, which will help the squad. We would like to finish as high as possible in the table."

Barkley, who has less than a year remaining on his contract at Goodison Park, is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury which could keep him out for up to three months.