Chelsea reportedly have three players that Newcastle United are keen to recruit in the upcoming January transfer window.
According to 90min, Newcastle’s plans to rock the footballing landscape include moving for Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ross Barkley.
This arrives not long after Christian Falk claimed Timo Werner was also on the Toon’s extensive shopping list.
After St James’ Park was placed under new ownership, the rumours revolving around fresh signings have skyrocketed.
Some more baffling and barmy than others.
But the Werner suggestion perhaps makes the podium for most ridiculous.
Would the German really sacrifice his Stamford Bridge settlement for a club sitting 19th in the Premier League?
By most accounts, the answer is no.
Can the same be said for Loftus-Cheek and Barkley?
Before the season began, the answer might actually have been yes.
In fact, whilst Mike Ashley was still in charge, the Magpies were linked to both Chelsea midfielders.
The Telegraph informed Newcastle fans on deadline day of last year that they had tried – and failed – to acquire Barkley, whilst a move for Loftus-Cheek was unlikely.
The pair instead moved on loan – Barkley to Aston Villa, Loftus-Cheek to Fulham – leaving Steve Bruce without two of his main targets.
But Bruce’s preferences have seemingly rubbed off on his Saudi-Arabian employers, even if he is going to be removed from the dugout.
Bruce’s Blues
However, a lot has changed for Barkley and Loftus-Cheek since Newcastle’s previous interest.
Both are now back at Chelsea after their underwhelming loan spells and have been re-installed by Thomas Tuchel.
Loftus-Cheek especially has made a sterling comeback, whilst Barkley is gradually becoming more involved.
This isn’t to say they could still be shipped on after the New Year.
Yet their chances of remaining a Blue are growing stronger by the day.
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