An update has emerged on Newcastle United target Ross Barkley, regarding Chelsea's plans for him this summer.

What's the talk?

According to The Chronicle, Newcastle are interested in a deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley before the end of the transfer window.

The report claims that he is available, with the England international seemingly not a part of Thomas Tuchel's plans moving forward.

Imagine him and Shelvey

Newcastle must pounce on this opportunity to land Barkley from Chelsea, with the Premier League giants ready to let him go this window. Mike Ashley should sanction either a loan or permanent deal for the midfielder, as he could improve Steve Bruce's side by bringing some added quality to the squad.

Bruce lined up with a 4-3-3 formation at times last season and he could create a formidable midfield trio if Barkley comes through the door.

Isaac Hayden, or a potential new signing if the club signs a defensive enforcer, could sit in the deeper role to screen the defence with Jonjo Shelvey and Barkley providing creativity on the ball in front of him.

Shelvey enjoyed an impressive 2020/21 campaign, as he averaged a WhoScored rating of 6.80 in 29 starts for Newcastle in the Premier League. He provided 1.2 key passes per game, showing that he has the ability to create chances from central midfield with his passing range.

Barkley, meanwhile, averaged a WhoScored rating of 6.75 in 18 starts for Villa on loan - although six substitute appearances dragged his score down. He managed 1.2 dribbles and 1.6 key passes per game, which means that he could add further quality on top of what Shelvey already gives Bruce in midfield. The pair could help Newcastle break open defences and increase the Magpies' chances of winning tight games.

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has given his endorsement to the £100k-per-week maestro previously, labelling him as a match-winner. He told The BBC:

He said: "Ross seems to have found a system that suits him and a manager who wants to play him. This is exactly what he needs.

"He now needs to find the consistency that has been lacking in his game because this is a crucial stage of his career. Ross has been spoken about in glowing terms since he was very young but he is 27 now and needs to deliver on that potential.

"At his best he is match-winner and Villa is a great platform for him."

Newcastle should be doing all they can to get the England international through the door before the season starts.

AND in other news, Newcastle leading race for "incredible" £20k-p/w beast, he could replace Fernandez...