ROSS Barkley looks like he could be on his way out of Chelsea with Newcastle United being a potential destination.

The 27-year-old spent last season on loan with Aston Villa where he featured 27 times for Neil Smith's side. Now that he has returned to his parent club Chelsea, it looks unlikely that Blues boss Thomas Tuchel will use him frequently as part of is Premier League squad.

While bookmakers have placed Steve Bruce's side in the race to secure Barkley, a number of other clubs seem to be ahead of them in the queue including the likes of former side Everton, Serie A champions Inter Milan and West Ham United, managed by former Toffess boss David Moyes.

The Northern Echo: Ross Barkley

Barkley has struggled for regular game time at Stamford Bridge since signing for the club in 2018 for a fee of around £12m and was sent out to Villa on loan last season.

He has 33 England caps to his name and has scored six goals for the Three Lions. 

Newcastle are short of squad depth heading into the Premier League season with Steve Bruce placing a particular emphasis on the midfield area. 

Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina looked set to join them at St James' Park but it now looks like he's on his way to France to link up view French side Nice.

Jonjo Shelvey still remains out of action because of a calf injury. 

Barkley could become a solution to Steve Bruce's problems and his potential availability could turn the heads of the Newcastle United recruitment staff.