Chelsea will go back for Ross Barkley as part of major January spend spree which also includes Christian Benteke
Boss Antonio Conte will battle Spurs for Barkley and wants striker reinforcements after being unconvinced by Michy Batshuayi
CHELSEA are set to reignite their interest in Ross Barkley as part of a major January transfer spending spree, according to reports.
And that flashing of the cash could also involve a shock move for Christian Benteke, report the Mirror.
Barkley had a medical at Chelsea in the summer but pulled out a move to the Premier League champions.
He has not featured once for the Toffees this season after undergoing surgery on his groin in July.
Spurs are said to still be interested in the England midfielder and a fascinating South vs North London battle could take place for the 23-year-old's signature.
Everton are said to be likely to sell Barkley in the next window rather than risk losing him for nothing.
His contract expires in the summer.
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It is also believed Chelsea will go for Benteke, who has just returned to training with Roy Hodgson's Crystal Palace.
The Blues missed out on Fernando Llorente in the summer after he opted to join Spurs.
Conte is said to still not be entirely sold on Michy Batshuayi - evident by his many substitute appearances - and wants competition for Alvaro Morata.
Benteke, 26, last played in the 5-0 mauling at the hands of Manchester City.
Chelsea have reportedly also scouted Red Star Belgrade frontman Richmond Boakye.
It remains to be seen who will be directing Chelsea's transfer business going forward after the departure of technical director Michael Emenalo.
