Kenny delivers insight on Leeds potentially re-signing his ex-teammate Barkley
Paddy Kenny has told Leeds to sign Ross Barkley on loan during the January transfer window.
The former Whites stopper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists Barkley could help to fill the gaps left in a squad depleted by injuries.
As reported by the Daily Mail on Tuesday (28 December), Leeds and Everton are both interested in re-signing the 28-year-old midfielder from Chelsea next month, with the Whites targeting a temporary move.
Barkley spent a month on loan at Leeds from Everton back in 2013, starting in three of his four appearances and contributing an assist.
Kenny was at Leeds with Barkley and encouraged his former side to bring him back to Elland Road.
“I played with Ross when he was younger, he came on loan from Everton,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“He was only 18 or 19 but from what I remember the quality was clear.
“Obviously it didn’t quite work out for him the first time but he had a decent spell at Villa last season.
“Leeds could do with a new midfielder who knows how to attack after the number of injuries they have had.
“Again, he’s not playing at Chelsea so I would imagine he is definitely available.
“Whether he is what Bielsa wants, who knows? Everyone who comes will have been signed off.
“So if he comes in it would probably be a good move.”
Barkley made 24 appearances while on loan at Aston Villa last season.
He scored three goals.
In other news, Leeds United have been tipped to sign two star players, including a striker, in January after Phil Hay update.