Report: Chelsea still want Everton midfielder Ross Barkley

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a fresh move for Everton midfielder Ross Barkley.

The England international was thought to be close to agreeing a switch to Stamford Bridge on deadline day in the summer, but he ended up making a U-turn and staying on Merseyside.

Rumours were rife that Barkley was holding out for Tottenham Hotspur as he would be more likely to get regular minutes at the North London outfit, but a serious hamstring injury threw a spanner in the works.

According to the Daily Mail, despite the midfielder's initial snub, Chelsea have made contact to see if the 24-year-old could be convinced to join the Blues.

Barkley, who has not played a minute of competitive action this season, is believed to be two weeks away from regaining full fitness.