By Saikat Mandal

15th Aug, 2022 | 7:10pm

West Ham United in race to sign Ross Barkley, player could be set for exit

West Ham are still in the mix to sign Ross Barkley this summer, as per Fraser Fletcher.

The reliable journalist, who has also worked for BBC Sport, reported on Twitter on 15 August that the likes of Celtic, Brighton and Aston Villa are in the race for the midfielder.

Fletcher suggests that Barkley could either leave on loan or on a permanent deal. At the moment, things are “moving faster”, which means his exit could be near.

Fletcher wrote on Twitter: “As I stated last week Celtic are in the race for Ross Barkley. Deal could be straight loan but permanent option also possible. Celtic alongside Brighton, West Ham and Aston Villa in race for midfielder. Things moving faster now on the player.”

No way

West Ham need to sign a midfielder this summer, and they are working on so many deals at the same time. 

The club is also looking to add a left-back and a centre-back to their ranks. 

Barkley won’t be an inspiring signing, to be fair. David Moyes nurtured him during his days at Goodison Park, and he probably feels that he can still get the best out of the player. 

However, it will be a massive gamble to sign Barkley, who has turned out to be a flop at Chelsea. 

He has struggled with injuries at Stamford Bridge while his performance in recent years has been below par. There is no evidence to show that Barkley still has got a lot to offer that can help the Hammers get into the top four. 

The Blues want to get rid of him, and he could be sold permanently. Having chased players like Amadou Onana, it will come as a real disappointment if the Hammers are to stay happy with Barkley.