Celtic backed to win Ross Barkley race after source’s update – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Chelsea ace Ross Barkley to “re-find himself” at Celtic if he accepts a loan move to the Scottish club.
The former Leeds and Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 28-year-old would be able to “express himself more” north of the border after struggling for Premier League action.
Football Insider revealed on Saturday (13 August) that Celtic have submitted an offer for Barkley – with Ange Postecoglou keen to take the playmaker on a season-long loan.
The England international is in the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge and has been told he can find a new club.
It is understood that Celtic are not the favourites to land Barkley as they cannot afford to subsidise the star’s £120,000-a-week wages.
The midfielder made just 14 total appearances for the Blues last season – just four of which came from the start.
When asked if Champions League group stage football could persuade Barkley to join the Hoops, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Absolutely, he’s still got loads to offer.
“I do believe he’s someone who hasn’t fulfilled his full potential – but we’ve seen it in short bursts and glimpses.
“I think it would be a great move for him. It would probably be easier for him, he’d be able to express himself more in Scotland – and Celtic are a massive club.
“He’s got the experience of Champions League football already, so he’s well suited to the European nights at Parkhead.
“I think he might re-find himself at Celtic, very much like Joe Hart. It’s an opportunity for him to find consistency again.”
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