Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel makes admission over Ross Barkley’s future amid Everton and Leeds United links

Thomas Tuchel has admitted that Chelsea have yet to discuss Ross Barkley’s future amid talks of an Everton return.

Barkley has struggled at Stamford Bridge since leaving Goodison Park for £15 million four years ago.

Last season, the midfielder was loaned out to Aston Villa where he scored three goals in 24 appearances.

But since returning to London, Barkley has again been down the pecking order. This campaign, he’s played only 11 times in all competitions.

Last month, it was reported that Everton were interested in bringing back on loan.

Rafa Benitez is keen to bolster his midfield options during the January transfer window.

Tuchel insists that the Champions League holders haven’t had a conversation on Barkley’s future, with Leeds also said to be interested.

He told reporters: “We haven’t discussed it yet.

“It depends on what Ross wants and what possibilities there are and what possibilities and what makes sense. So let’s see.”

Will Ross Barkley join Everton?

Barkley is likely to feature for Chelsea when they play Chesterfield in the FA Cup third-round tomorrow.

However, beyond that, it could depend if Tuchel sees the England international as surplus to requirements.

Everton are seemingly in the market for an additional midfielder, having already had a bid turned down for Newcastle’s Sean Longstaff.

Barkley would be more of an attacking option that Benitez does not currently possess in his squad.

But there would be doubts around whether he could hit his peak again if he rejoined his boyhood club.