Rob Lee believes Ross Barkley’s inconsistency will rule out the possibility of Newcastle United making a move.
The midfielder’s days at Chelsea appear to be numbered after being left without a squad number for the new season.
Barkley was also omitted from the Blues’ matchday squad for their opening weekend win over Crystal Palace and had to settle for action in a friendly against non-league Weymouth last weekend.
Should Newcastle sign Barkley?
Yes
No
Barkley’s fall down the pecking order comes after spending last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he made 24 appearances but saw his opportunities limited by a hamstring injury.
Having already completed the £20million signing of Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock, who spent half of last term on loan, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce is keen to add further reinforcements and the Magpies are among several Premier League sides – including West Ham United and Everton – keeping tabs on Barkley.
But former Newcastle midfielder Lee would be surprised to see Barkley, 27, secure a move to St James’ Park.
Speaking exclusively to TIF, Lee said: “Ross Barkley always impresses me in fits and starts.
“I think what Ross Barkley lacks is consistency. He is brilliant one day and then you won’t see him for a few games.
“When he gets the ball, he’s got great ability but he should create more things.”